Montana Morgan
eSomethin’ Staff
Hope Elizabeth Burkin of Perrysburg was born on May 9, 2000, and lived a very full 17 years of life. She was loved by many and had a great life.
On June 7, 2017, Heaven gained an angel. Hope lost her life to the battle of her lifelong disease Fanconi anemia.
What is Fanconi anemia?
Fanconi anemia is caused by an abnormal gene that destroys body cells, which prevents them from repairing damaged DNA. This is a blood disease that is passed down through a family and it especially affects bone marrow.
Around the school this week, green flyers are hanging everywhere. The fliers are trying to gain awareness for the International “Be The Match” donor registration drive. It is important to Perrysburg because we want to honor our beloved Hope Burkin.
Be The Match is a nonprofit organization that cares for the medical needs of patients, similar to The American Red Cross. Be The Match matches stem cell donors (Bone marrow) with patients who desperately need stem cells.
[youtube url=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OKzJHmwM6RM”]
People who tend to need this stem cell transplant usually have a blood disorder such as Fanconi anemia, Leukemia, or Sickle Cell.
One single match may be someone’s key to survival and an amazing life.
Our Be The Match Drive registry will be held at the high school from 12:00pm-7:00pm on May 9th–Hope’s 18th birthday.
All races and genders are welcome and ages 18-44 are the best donor candidates and there is no fee for people ages 18-44.
For the registration, all you need to do is complete paperwork and simply get your cheek swabbed!
For more information on blood disorders and the upcoming donation drive registry, there will be an informational meeting held on Wednesday, April 25th at 3:30pm at Perrysburg High School; be sure to attend if you are interested.
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