HelloBeautiful has teamed up with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital® to share the stories of children and families affected by cancer and other life-threatening diseases.
St. Jude is leading the way the world understand, treats and defeats childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. Research efforts have directly affected millions of children, including 4-year-old Bryce.
Shortly after birth, Bryce was diagnosed with sickle cell disease, an inherited blood disorder that affects red blood cells. Following Bryce’s diagnosis, his parents, Adrienne and Bruce, turned to St. Jude for treatment and care.
“I was just in panic mode, in shock,” Adrienne said.
At St. Jude, which is located in Memphis, Tennessee, Bryce’s treatment included a daily penicillin regimen. Once the infant turned 1, his care included hydroxyurea, a drug that helps reduce the frequency of painful crises and reduce the need for blood transfusions in patients with sickle cell.
“The plan was strategically outlined to let me know we are all in it as a team, and St. Jude is committed to my son’s outcome and well-being,” his mom explained.
Thanks to St. Jude’s commitment to finding cures to diseases that threaten young lives, Bryce is a happy and energetic boy, who revels in putting together puzzles, as well as playing with his sister. Today, the toddler returns to the facility for regular checkups.
PHOTO CREDIT: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®