Mena's battle against leukemia

Hi, my name is Lita and I'm starting this fundraiser campaign for my sister, Mena, and her family as she fights against Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) a rare and aggressive blood cancer. This will help alleviate some financial burdens for my sister and her husband, Chris, so that they can focus on her health and their two young boys, Ayden and Ryder.

Mena was a regular plasma donor as she always believed in helping others. On October 20th, 2023 she proceeded her way to donate for her 49th time but unfortunately to Mena's disappointment, she was unable to continue and was instructed to visit her GP for additional testing.

On Wednesday October 25th, 2023 following a blood test, Mena was contacted by her doctor and instructed go to the ER in Gladstone Hospital in Queensland Australia. Along with her husband Chris, it was here that the doctor confirmed her diagnosis, Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Their world had turned upside down from that moment on. The journey to Mena's healing began that day.

The next day she was rushed to the RBWH hospital in Brisbane, Queensland Australia. On November 2nd, 2023 just one day before her 43rd birthday, she began her 7-day induction chemotherapy. The treatment was grueling, with intense side effects including nausea, fatigue, and hair loss. But she was determined to fight the cancer and get better for her two young children.

Each day she pushed through the pain and discomfort, focusing on getting better to return to her family. She drew strength from the support of her family and friends, who rallied around her with love and encouragement.

After the first round of chemotherapy, Mena's energy was depleted as she suffered numerous infections and side effects from the chemotherapy. Mena remained in the hospital for 32 days for this first round of treatment.

When she was finally discharged, Mena and her family stayed at the Leukemia Foundation Units in Coopers Plain. It was here that she and the family felt closest to 'normal' despite this new battle. She traveled back and forth between hospital appointments for outpatient chemotherapy, and requiring blood and platelets through an IV.

In December 2023, the AML became less responsive to chemotherapy and she relapsed after a short period. She felt extremely sick with high fevers during this time. She was quickly admitted to the hospital again where she would spend another 43 days in the hospital.

The next step of treatment for Mena is a bone marrow transplant using stem cells collected from a matched sibling. She will remain hospitalized for at least one month and closely monitored for 100 days. Her husband Chris will have to try to juggle work, splitting his time between visiting Mena in the hospital, and caring for their 2 boys.

Mena's courage and determination are truly inspiring, and we are rooting for her every step of the way. Let's come together to support her through this difficult time and send positive vibes for a successful bone marrow transplant and a full recovery.