Katie spent about a month in the hospital where she received both platelet and red blood cell transfusions. She has received about 30 blood transfusions during her battle with ALL and currently receives chemotherapy every month. “I never put into perspective that blood goes towards cancer patients. I never realized cancer patients need blood transfusions too, especially pediatrics,” says Katie’s dad.
Her parents can see how transfusions make a difference in their daughter. When Katie is in need of a transfusion, she’s tired, irritable and bruises easily. As she’s getting the transfusion, the color returns to her face, and her parents can even see the pink coming back to her lips. Afterwards, she’s a lively young girl in a much better mood.
Blood transfusions have allowed Katie to feel better and live a more normal life.