If you want to feel inspired (and, yeah, probably cry), then the video above can do the trick. It does a fantastic job of summarizing -- and updating -- the story of St. Louis Blues fan Laila Anderson as she battles the rare immune disease HLH.
Truly, it’s been a remarkable year since Anderson received a bone marrow transplant from Kenton Felmlee, whom she would eventually meet.
One moment that stood out because it’s another nice recent development: Anderson holding a sign indicating that All-Star week will represent a milestone: one year since that “golden ticket” transplant. Please excuse the quality, as it is a screen that just begs to be shared.
Pretty great.
Anderson experienced quite a year:
- Again, she received that bone marrow transplant and met her donor. They even met up at a Blues game.
- Anderson became a “good luck charm” for the Blues. Eventually, she received the bobblehead treatment.
- The Blues let her have a touching moment with the Stanley Cup, and even gifted Anderson a ring. She also spoke during the parade.
During that clip, Anderson’s organ donor pointed out his own family struggles with disease, which inspired him to become a donor. As touching as Anderson’s personal story is, it could be an even greater good if it helps raise awareness, and thus save lives.
The National Marrow Program set up a specific spot to promote awareness: beamatch.org/laila. Anderson designed a shirt, with all proceeds benefiting Be the Match:
Maybe even more good can come from an already heartwarming story?
—
James O’Brien is a writer for Pro Hockey Talk on NBC Sports. Drop him a line at phtblog@nbcsports.com or follow him on Twitter @cyclelikesedins.