Area residents have a chance to give back this Sunday as the Dublin Rotary Club is hosting a blood drive in honor of 6-year-old Josey Roman of Comanche.
Josey does not make blood and is requiring a blood transfusion every two weeks as doctors continue to try to solve her medical issues.
“Her disease is progressing,” her mom, Emily Roman said.
The little girl is already transfusion dependant but is requiring more and more transfusions.
Though her life is filled with transfusions and medical appointments, Josey “loves all things girl,” according to her mom. “She told me the other day I needed to learn how to play dolls,” Emily said, laughing.
The rare condition began at 4 years old when she started having migraines and looking very pale. After a trip to Cook’s Children Hospital they found out that Josey had stopped making blood.
She has already undergone five bone marrow biopsies and the family is hopeful that one day, a bone marrow transplant may become available to help her body “learn” how to make blood.
“It’s very debilitating. She will have to spend at least 150 days in the hospital,” Emily said.
It is possible, however, that the youngster may have an autoimmune disease in which case she will stay transfusion dependant.
“Blood drives are so important,” Emily said. This drive will take place at Carter Blood Care buses parked at The Station in Dublin from 1-5 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 13. The Station is located between Dairy Queen and First National Bank.
People can go into The Station, cool down and even meet Josey and Emily.
“We will be there and would love to meet everyone,” she said.
Those donating will receive a $25 gift card for gas and a free beach towel.