Khai

Clermont, Florida

I was born with sickle cell anemia, a hereditary disease. I have the form SS, which can be more severe. Often people like me can require monthly blood transfusions. I have had 4 since I turned 8 months old.

Any little thing can send me to the hospital and cause me to need a blood transfusion, even the common cold. My doctor hopes to avoid the need for monthly transfusions. That means that I have had to stay away from my family so I can stay safe

Transfusions and hospitalizations have been very challenging for me, especially with all the needle pokes. My blood doesn't flow so well through my body, and it gets stuck in my organs. This is very painful for me, but this is how blood transfusions help me. It gives me healthy blood that helps my organs function.

In my 19 months, I've been hospitalized over a half dozen times. Many of those times I required a transfusion. My mommy, daddy and bro bro are all thankful for all blood donors who help people like me.