Bone Marrow Register - Collection.europarchive.org

Olivia’s story
In May 1998 Olivia changed from being
a happy, playful toddler to being poorly,
clinging to her mother and frequently
crying. After developing nose bleeds and
a rash, Olivia was in so much pain she
was rushed to Kings Lynn Hospital. Her
mother Karen recalls “Within two hours
of seeing a doctor, we were told Olivia
had acute lymphoblastic leukaemia”.
During the following two years Olivia
underwent intensive chemotherapy and
needed frequent blood transfusions.
By January 2001, after an apparent
recovery, she developed a limp. After a
worrying trip to the doctor her parents
learned that the leukaemia had returned.
Doctors suggested a stem cell transplant
and miraculously a match was found
within two months. Following a period of
isolation and physiotherapy Olivia was well
enough to play with other children again
and today is a healthy 11 year old.
Karen says “We are just so grateful to the
bone marrow donor whose generosity has
let Olivia grow into the bubbly little girl
she is today”.
www.bbmr.co.uk 9