Bone Marrow Transplant for Jennie

Fevers and strange bruising and a trip to the emergency room marked the beginning of Jennie’s battle with aplastic anemia, an extremely rare disease that affects only approximately 20,000 people. Just weeks ago, Jennie was the picture of health, strength, and self-reliance. Suddenly and without warning in early September, Jennie found herself facing down a chronic and debilitating disease.

Jennie has since been hospitalized on a strict isolation unit at NYU Langone in preparation for the long road ahead to recovery as she, her partner and her family begin to process the impact of this diagnosis.

Aplastic Anemia is a rare disease in which the body’s bone marrow completely stops functioning, preventing it from being able to produce new blood cells. Some of the types of blood cells that the bone marrow produce are essential for the body’s normal response for fighting even the most minor infections. Other blood cells are required to form clots so that we stop bleeding from just a simple cut.

The only treatment for aplastic anemia is a bone marrow transplant. Until a match (most likely her sister) can be found, Jennie will likely remain hospitalized to receive repeated transfusions to keep her blood counts from dropping to dangerously low levels. Once a transplant is scheduled, Jennie will need to receive chemotherapy and radiation as part of the treatment to replace her bone marrow with functioning donor bone marrow. She’ll be hospitalized for several weeks and will need to recover over the course of several months and will not be able to work at all during this time, as even the slightest infection or bleeding episode could be life threatening.

We have yet to understand the expense that will be associated with Jennie’s grave illness, but we know that she will need help. If you have ever been lucky enough to know Jennie, you’ve more than likely been on the receiving end of her innate generosity and boundless kindness. She is always the first to jump to help others; it is just her nature. We’ve created this fundraiser to help offset Jennie’s expenses and support her the same way we know she’d support each and every one of us during such a challenging time.

While Jennie's treatment will be covered by insurance, Jennie faces a grueling treatment that will span months--if not years. While Jennie focuses on facing chemotherapy, blood transfusions, bone marrow transplant, and physical therapy, the bills and expenses will continue to grow.

The donations we collect on Jennie's behalf will cover:

If you’re able to help in any way, we would be eternally grateful. Your well wishes and positive vibes are also welcomed with so much gratitude.