Support Lynn's Battle with MDS

Lynn is a vibrant and beloved woman who is facing an unexpected life-altering diagnosis. To her family, she is a cherished daughter, sister, and aunt. To her friends and co-workers, she is a trusted and organized partner, a confidant, and a fun person to be around. Her identity is deeply rooted in these relationships and the warmth she brings to others.

Last month, Lynn received a diagnosis of Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS), a complex group of blood cancers stemming from a genetic mutation in bone marrow stem cells. In Lynn’s case, the presence of multiple mutations across various chromosomes makes her specific form of MDS exceptionally challenging, requiring a specialized and aggressive approach. Her age makes this diagnosis even more heartbreaking, as MDS typically affects individuals over 60.

The Difficult Path to a Cure: A Bone Marrow Transplant

Despite the daunting news, there is hope: a bone marrow transplant offers the promise of a healthy life. This demanding and prolonged procedure is Lynn's path to a cure. Her current regimen includes daily chemotherapy infusions to combat cancerous cells, followed by weekly blood and platelet transfusions to replenish vital blood components that her compromised bone marrow can no longer produce.

The intensity of this treatment leaves Lynn frequently weak and depleted of energy, making even simple daily tasks formidable. Driving, errands, and light household chores are impossible. Lynn will require consistent, often round-the-clock, caretaking throughout her illness, with dedicated caregivers essential for her well-being and safety.

How You Can Make a Difference: Easing the Burden and Saving Lives

Lynn’s medical crisis carries a significant financial burden from extensive chemotherapy, frequent transfusions, specialized care, and continuous caretaking. Any contribution, no matter the size, would be met with eternal gratitude, allowing Lynn and her family to focus on her healing.

If financial assistance isn't feasible, there are other profoundly impactful ways to help Lynn and save lives. Blood donation is an immediate and critical need. Lynn has already required a dozen units of blood, underscoring the life-sustaining power of these donations. Words cannot express our gratitude for these selfless donors, who have literally saved her life multiple times. Please consider donating blood; you can find a drive near you at American Red Cross or, for those in the Pacific Northwest, Bloodworks Northwest.

Another incredibly powerful way to make a difference is to register as a bone marrow donor, especially for individuals aged 18 to 40. Over 70% of patients needing a transplant do not have a matched family donor, relying on altruistic donors found through a registry. Registering is simple and takes minutes. Click here to answer a few questions and receive a free, in-home swab kit. Your selfless act could provide the miracle that someone like Lynn desperately needs.

Any help you can give, in any form is greatly appreciated. We love Lynn and are doing all we can to support her. Thank you for joining the fight!