Ronnie’s story
Just one week before his first birthday, baby Ronnie was diagnosed with Severe Aplastic Anaemia, a bone marrow disorder that affects the production of healthy stem cells in the bone marrow. Born a healthy, happy baby, he became very unwell and urgently needed a stem cell transplant to survive.
“Nothing prepares you for the words, we suspect this may be leukaemia… The room went quiet, our hearts were pounding, and then instantly our minds were jumping to the worst-case scenario and thinking how is our baby meant to battle such a deadly disease at such a young age.”
Laura, Ronnie’s mum
After Ronnie’s diagnosis and with no suitable donor, his family bravely shared their story in their hometown of Liverpool and across the UK.
Ronnie’s appeal was a huge success
Everton FC supported their appeal at their derby match with Liverpool FC, where more than 50,000 fans heard their story and the need for more donors to join the register. In the months that followed, more than 1,200 people joined the register and over £2,500 was raised in support of Ronnie’s appeal.
When we first started the Register4Ronnie campaign, we didn't realise it would take off as much as it did. But Anthony Nolan have been there for us every day. On the day of his transplant, we got a message wishing Ronnie well, and even to this day we still get their messages… It's the little gestures that all add up. This wasn't just about them trying to get awareness, it was also about being there for us as a family, which they continue to do so to this day.
Laura, Ronnie's Mum
Ronnie's donor was found
In June, Ronnie’s family received the incredible news that there was a 10/10 donor match for Ronnie and he went ahead with his transplant two months later. He has surpassed doctors expectations with his recovery and is isolating at home.
“He’s absolutely smashed it, and the good news is he's now 100 per cent at donor cells and is producing his own cells.”
Laura, Ronnie’s mum
How can you help others like Ronnie?
Aged 16 to 30? Help save the life of someone like Ronnie by joining the register today.
It costs £40 to sign someone up to the stem cell register; someone who has the potential to save a life like Ronnie's. Could you help fund a lifesaver?
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