To my fellow moms,
Last night, just before I drifted off to sleep, I scrolled through Facebook one last time. That’s when I stumbled upon the heartbreaking news. My neighbor’s 5-year-old son, Charlie, who had bravely battled AML, an aggressive form of leukemia, had relapsed. They would have to start chemotherapy again, and he might require a second bone marrow transplant. My heart was heavy.
This is the same little boy who was joyfully playing outside with my sons just last week; the same polite, vibrant child who willingly shared his toys with my younger ones, who are still learning to share. Just a few months ago, I watched him learn to ride his bike along the path next to my home. Now, he faces another round of hospitalization and the grueling challenges that come with it.
What makes this situation even more heart-wrenching is that his parents know what lies ahead. They understand the long hours they’ll spend apart from their younger son, and they know the fear that will cloud their 5-year-old’s face during bone marrow biopsies and the difficult medications that are meant to heal but will also bring discomfort. They are unwavering in their fight, even with the knowledge of what’s to come.
I felt powerless, lost. In my role as a social worker, I’ve walked alongside countless families through these struggles. I’ve shared tears and laughter with parents, played games with children who were too sick to have visitors, and supported siblings grappling with the confusion of their family’s situation. But this time, it’s different; it’s personal. I wanted to find a way to help.
We could offer to mow their lawn, but they already have someone for that. We could babysit their younger son, but they have plenty of family nearby who can better comfort him. Yes, I can prepare meals and lend emotional support, but it hardly feels sufficient when they’re fighting for their child’s life.
But this morning, I had a thought. I need your help to make it happen. I’m not asking for donations to a GoFundMe page.
Before my first son was born, I registered as a bone marrow donor. As the reality of motherhood settled in, I knew that if my child or husband, or even I, ever needed bone marrow, I’d want a match available. It felt selfish to want to access this resource without also contributing to the donor pool. So, I took the step to join it. Although I haven’t been matched yet, I’m grateful my DNA is available for someone in need.
Just imagine if everyone reading this letter registered as donors. Picture how we could amplify the current donor pool and potentially save the lives of children, mothers, and fathers alike. We could truly make a difference.
Becoming a donor is simple. Visit bethematch.org to request a kit. They will send you a packet with easy instructions to swab your cheek at home. Then, send it back, and voilà—you’re on a list that could enable you to save a life. Has anything that could change the world ever been so easy?
As mothers, for your children, your partners, yourselves, and for children like Charlie, please consider registering as a bone marrow donor. If age or health restrictions prevent you from registering, share this information with those who can.
We might feel helpless in the face of challenges like Charlie’s, but we can take action. Please think about registering as a bone marrow donor. You never know how it could change a life.
Always,
Kristen Caminiti
This article was originally published on May 23, 2016.
If you’re interested in more insights, check out this post on home insemination kits. Also, for those exploring their fertility options, this resource on intrauterine insemination can be incredibly helpful.
Summary: In a heartfelt letter to fellow mothers, Kristen shares her emotional struggle upon learning about her neighbor Charlie’s leukemia relapse. She emphasizes the importance of bone marrow donation and encourages others to register as donors. By doing so, they can contribute to a vital resource that may save lives.