Hello, my name is Nicole Brandhorst and our family is raising funds for my sweet Aunt Lisa Headington. She has been fiercely fighting MDS Cancer for two years. MDS stands for Acute Myeloid Leukemia, it is a type of blood that affects the bone marrow, where blood cells are produced. They occur when the bone marrow produces abnormal or unhealthy blood cells, which can lead to low levels of red blood cells (anemia), platelets (bleeding), and white blood cells (infection).

Lisa receives several transfusions and boosters weekly to boost her blood counts and energy. Unfortunately, while she vigorously tries to fight, she is no longer able to work. Temporary living in a bubble and if you know Lisa, she finds joy being surrounded by family/friends.

She has recently received news that treatments are no longer working, and she needs to have a Bone Marrow Transplant (Stem Cell Transplant). This is used to treat blood cancers and other serious blood disorders by replacing blood-forming cells with healthy, often from a donor.

Lisa will have an extended stay in Iowa City while she recovers for several weeks to months. Though, this will add to financial burden and stress we remain optimistic. Having this done will be her fighting chance to live a long happy, healthy life.

Our family appreciates any financial assistance to help ease that burden for Lisa. Additionally, prayers are always welcome for her strength and that they find the perfect donor.

Lisa is pictured with our amazing Grandfather, Melvin Steimel, who unfortunately lost his battle with the same type of blood cancer.

Our Family wants to thank you from the bottom of our hearts as we navigate through the process. We will post updates as well as her progress.

Thank you,

Steimel Family