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Diagnosis: Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Multiple and continuing red cell and platelet transfusions needed
 August 13, 1998 will forever live in the minds of the Manley family from Lumberton, Texas. That day, four year old Caroline Manley was diagnosed with ALL (Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.) ALL is a cancer which causes the bone marrow to make too many white blood cells. The cancer progresses rapidly if left untreated. After the diagnosis, Caroline spent most of the next 2 ½ years in chemotherapy. She improved and then relapsed in August 2003. In August of 2005 she suffered another relapse. Caroline has spent nearly 8 years of her life undergoing chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Currently she is undergoing treatment at MD Anderson in Houston, Texas, including red cell and platelet transfusions to strengthen her system. Her father, Hershel Manley explains, “We are totally indebted to blood donors because without their life saving donations Caroline would not be alive today. Blood is truly the gift of life.” Caroline’s only hope for a full recovery is to receive a bone marrow transplant. Fortunately, a perfect match has been found. This summer Caroline will receive her transplant.
Caroline, now twelve, anxiously waits to return to a normal life with family and friends. She looks forward to resuming church and school attendance and playing with her best buddy, her dog Oreo. Caroline will have the opportunity to return to the life she loves thanks to blood donors, bone marrow donors, a bone marrow match and a wonderful staff of physicians.
“I know God is on our side and God loves Caroline. As for all of the blood donors, we can never repay you for your time and donations, but we truly appreciate you.”
“Thank You!”
Hershel, Melissa, Andrew, Rachel & Oreo Manley
Earlier during the year, Caroline’s church held a blood and bone marrow drive in Caroline’s honor. Over 170 individuals, including family, friends and community members rolled up their sleeves to give the “Gift of Life.” |
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LifeShare Donor Centers
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