After years of testing and meetings with specialists, Joni was diagnosed with aplastic anemia, an autoimmune condition that attacks her bone marrow. She regularly receives platelet transfusions at Hasbro Children’s Hospital and at times needs red cell transfusions. Because of blood donors, she has been able to get her license, play three sports, and get straight A’s.
“It’s been a decade of receiving weekly platelets and sometimes red cells. That has been what has given her a normal quality of life and allowed her to grow up and live her dreams” – Joni’s mom, Kelly
Watch Joni’s story by Barbara Morse from WJAR 10, featuring Joni and her mother.