Bluff teen needs help in leukaemia fight
BY becoming a bone marrow stem cell donor, “you could be contributing to a life of new dreams for me,” said Bluffite Chase Tanner, who was diagnosed with leukaemia in September 2012.
After suffering from extreme weight loss, lethargy and sore joints, Chase was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, a cancer of the white blood cells. He immediately underwent chemotherapy and radiation for nine months and went into remission.
Unfortunately, he relapsed in July and was told his only option for survival was a bone marrow transplant. The chances of a bone marrow stem cell donor match are 1:100,000 within an ethnic group and neither of Chase’s brothers are a match.
Despite this, the 16-year-old has remained determinated and positive. “He has maintained a mature and amazing outlook on everything; he is positive and optimistic,” said his mother, Sjanine.
To date their medical aid has paid close to R1-million for his treatment and it will cost a further R1-million for the transplant and hospitalisation. The family and friends have undertaken numerous fundraising activities to raise the money to find a donor, which is not covered by medical aid.
“I would like everyone to register as bone marrow stem cell donors as you could be my or someone else’s only chance of survival,” said Chase. To become a bone marrow donor contact the Sunflower Foundation through their website www.sunflowerfund.org.za.
Anyone willing to help the Tanner fundraising drive may email his mother, Sjanine at sjanine@envirosure.co.za for details.
– erinh@dbn.caxton.co.za
