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Caitlin Ruske's Chemo and Other Treatment for HLH

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This April, Caitlin Ruske was diagnosed with a rare and serious blood condition called hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH). The Ruske family is adamantly fighting for her recovery while also caring for her father, Ross (currently in stage three coma caused by a brain injury). They are counting on you to help fund rounds of chemotherapy and other treatments for Caitlin.

HLH is a severe, life-threatening inflammatory syndrome caused by certain triggering events (like previous illness) or a genetic mutation. Gone untreated, it damages the body's vital organs and limits lifespan to an average of two months. There are several parallels between HLH and leukemia in terms of how the condition exhibits and how it is treated. Forms of treatment include antibody injections, chemotherapy, and ultimately a bone marrow transplant. Caitlin is currently undergoing chemotherapy and is potentially slated for additional operations in the coming weeks.

For more information about HLH, see the following resources:

Caitlin started showing symptoms at the end of March. Nearly a month later, she is still subject to those same symptoms: waves of high fever up to 104.8 degrees, chills, jaundice, fatigue, enlargement and inflammation of most organs, digestive difficulties, skin redness, and a persistent cough. She was initially admitted to Onslow Memorial hospital and was transferred to UNC Chapel Hill, where she is currently receiving specialized care. She is unable to work and support herself for the time being. Her mom, Eileen, is staying with her to oversee her treatment for the foreseeable future.

At 25 years old, Caitlin is a clinical dietician who supports people with special dietary needs. She is mom to two eternally active doggies and one eternally inactive kitty, roommate to an unconditionally loving and hilarious 2nd grade teacher, the "baby sister" to two obnoxious brothers and one sanguine sister, and cheerful friend to many. With many bright years ahead of her, let's help her step back into these roles, pick up where she left off, and live the life she is so deserving of.



Organizer

Kyle Ruske
Organizer
Herndon, VA

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