Zeferino (Zephyr) is a cheeky, intelligent and energetic 2-year old boy with a passion for monster trucks, painting, bubbles, animals and cupcakes. In April, Zeferino’s life changed drastically when he was diagnosed with Severe Aplastic Anemia - a rare blood disease that affects only 2 in one million people. This disease hinders Zephyr’s bone marrow to produce red blood cells for oxygen, white blood cells to fight infections and platelets to help clot bleeding. This can result in an increased risk of serious infections and uncontrollable bleeding. As a result, Zephyr has been admitted to the emergency department for the last three months in complete isolation with regular medical appointments, high risk procedures, numerous blood transfusions and consumption of toxic medicines. Zephyr’s diagnosis has drastically altered his life. He must isolate for up to a year and cannot participate in his treasured activities in public and has withdrawn from daycare, attending social outings, visiting high volume areas such as the park, shops or restaurants and unfortunately, refrains from seeing friends and family. Due to numerous serious illnesses, Zephyr will undergo a bone marrow transplant, which while saving his life, might cause detrimental side effects including infertility, neurocognitive and processing issues, permanent hair loss, diabetes, cataracts, and major organ complications (gut, liver, bladder, lungs). This is due to exposure to radiotherapy, two rounds of chemotherapy and a mixture of up to 8-10 medicines. Fortunately, due to the wonders of the medical world, his father Jayson will be able to donate his unmatched bone marrow. This has forced dad to take leave in order to isolate and be healthy in preparation to harvest his bone marrow. His mother, Ingrid, will need to take leave for his recovery period as she is the full-time caregiver. Along with isolation, Zephyr’s recovery will include constant care including daily feeding through a nasal tube, administration of medication and upkeep of hygiene to fight against infections. For his second birthday in August, his parents will hold a blood drive in honour of Zephyr’s journey as well as to encourage the public to join the bone marrow registry to help raise awareness and support others who suffer from the same disease. This LFEBridge page has been primarily established to help increase awareness in hopes to assist and aid Zephyr’s long term recovery whilst remaining in 24/7 full isolation. This will cover not only medical expenses, but day-to-day costs to alleviate the stresses of financial burdens during this sad and challenging time, and will enable Ingrid and Jay to isolate and focus on Zephyr’s recovery. We are asking for your kindness and generosity in supporting Zephyr and this cause. Your donation will make a bloody positive difference! Thank you so so much ❤️❤️❤️ and I will keep you all updated along the way on Zephy’s long journey.
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