7-Year-Old Girl Beats Rare Leukemia After Sister's Bone Marrow Donation

A 7-year-old girl in the UK named Ruby Leaning is now cancer-free after receiving a lifesaving bone marrow transplant from her 4-year-old sister Mabel. Ruby was diagnosed with a rare form of leukemia in 2020. After several tests, Mabel was found to be an ideal match as a bone marrow donor for her older sister.

Ruby underwent a stem cell transplant using Mabel's donated bone marrow. In 2022, doctors declared that Ruby was in remission from the rare cancer. "Mabel saved Ruby's life for sure," said the girls' grandmother, Amanda Fawcett. She added that Ruby is now a "happy, normal, and healthy 10-year-old" who enjoys activities like swimming, dancing, and playing piano.

Why this matters: This heartwarming story highlights the critical importance of bone marrow donation in treating rare and severe forms of childhood cancer. It also emphasizes the incredible resilience and bravery of young children facing life-threatening illnesses.

The Leaning family received support from the Parents Association of Children with Tumors and Leukemia (PACT) throughout Ruby's difficult treatment, which was further complicated by the COVID-19 pandemic. "We cannot thank PACT enough for their support," Fawcett said. "They were there for our family every step of the way during such a challenging time." Ruby's successful recovery is a testament to the power of familial love, medical advancements, and the generosity of bone marrow donors in giving young cancer patients a second chance at life.

Key Takeaways

• 7-year-old Ruby Leaning cancer-free after sister's bone marrow transplant
• Mabel, 4, was a perfect match donor for her older sister Ruby
• Ruby was diagnosed with rare leukemia in 2020, now a "happy, normal, and healthy 10-year-old"
• The family received support from PACT during Ruby's treatment, complicated by COVID-19
• The story highlights importance of bone marrow donation for childhood cancer patients