Olivia

In October 2018, Olivia’s mom noticed yellowing in Olivia’s eyes. Doctors determined she had an enlarged liver and eventually diagnosed her with aplastic anemia. By the end of December, it became clear Olivia would need a bone marrow transplant—but first she would need to find her donor match. Meet NMDP.

NMDP connects patients with their donor match for a life-saving bone marrow transplant, providing support every step along the transplant journey.

Incredibly, Olivia had not one but several genetically suitable donor matches. By May 2019, she was preparing transplant when her first donor was medically disqualified. Fortunately, her second match said yes.

As soon as Olivia’s transplant date approached, her blood counts began to rise, so her transplant—and her marrow donor, Jimmy—was put on hold.

But in the spring of 2020, it was determined that transplant was now Olivia’s best chance for a cure. So, in June, still honoring his original commitment, Jimmy gave Olivia his bone marrow—and a second chance at life.

Now, two years later, Olivia is off all medication. She started kindergarten in fall. She likes to cook and play with friends. And her spirit and personality shine as brightly as her rainbow hair.

Quote from Mom:

“When they first said aplastic anemia, your heart just kind of sinks, everything stops. It’s nothing you can prepare yourself for.”
Lori, Olivia’s mom