January 2007, two year old Allyson, who was born on September 26, 2004, was diagnosed with an extremely rare, inherited blood disorder called Fanconi Anemia (FA). FA is a life-threatening and unpredictable disease. It is a type of aplastic anemia. What that means is Allyson's bone marrow slows down or stops making all three types of blood cells. Low levels of these blood cells can harm her body's organs, tissues, and systems. Allyson also has a much higher risk of developing cancer. The average life span for people with Fanconi Anemia is between 20 to 30 years.

Since her diagnosis two years ago, Allyson's bone marrow failure has progressed to the point that a Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) is necessary. Allyson, who lives with her single mom Liz Funk, returns to the Fanconi Anemia Comprehensive Care Center at the Cincinnati Children's Hospital on June 12th for her routine check-up and to be scheduled for her Bone Marrow Transplant.

When Allyson receives her BMT, her mom will be away from work for an undetermined amount of time (anywhere from 6 months to a year or possible more). They will have to move to Cincinnati while Allyson receives the required radiation and chemotherapy to kill off her existing bone marrow. Then bone marrow from an unrelated donor found through the National Bone Marrow Registry will be given to Allyson. Anti-rejection drugs will suppress her immune system limiting her time and contact with friends and family for at least a year after her transplant to minimize the risk of infections and illnesses.

JOIN US IN THE FIGHT FOR ALLYSON!!

Your help is greatly needed as is much appreciated. Insurance will only pay a portion of the cost that is accumulated for the bone marrow transplant. There will still be tens of thousands of dollars in expenses that are not covered by insurance. While living in Cincinnati , Allyson’s mom Liz will be without income. We all have had to tighten the belt but I sincerely hope that you can find a little something somewhere to help Allyson and Liz during their time of need.

Take a look around the website. There are pictures on the “Take a Look” page, Allyson updates, Allyson Events on the “Here’s the Scoop” page, and a place to donate on the “Feeling Generous” page. We also have an opportunity for you to get “Fight4Allyson” apparel. Keep checking back for more updates.

Thank you

Contact: Fighting4Allyson@gmail.com