What's our story?
My mom and I—two novice hikers—have decided to trek across America on the American Discovery Trail to raise funding for research and awareness for Aplastic Anemia and other bone marrow diseases. That’s 5,000 miles across the country—on foot!
Sure, you’re probably wondering why we decided to hike across the country instead of embarking on a more traditional fundraising effort. In 1997, I was diagnosed with Aplastic Anemia. Fortunately, I’m now in remission. So the hike is a celebration of that good health – the physical abilities that might be easy to take for granted each day. It’s also a way to raise awareness for Bone Marrow Diseases. (continued below map)
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Unlike other common diseases like cancers and heart disease, this illness isn’t a priority for research and there aren’t as many fundraising efforts -- yet. In fact, most people have never heard of Bone Marrow Diseases. The scary thing, though, is that it can hit anyone at any time – and it is fatal if not treated. Awareness is key, and we want to educate others. Our Hike is an engaging way to spread awareness and raise money for the Aplastic Anemia & MDS International Foundation (AA&MDSIF), to help find a cure for these and other bone marrow diseases.
So in the coming months, we’ll be telling our story to anyone who’ll listen. And we hope you’ll spread the word too. Please pledge a donation and help us reach our $1,000,000 goal. Every little bit helps. On behalf of all patients and family members that have unfortunately been introduced to Bone Marrow Diseases, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
Take care and happy trails!
Robin Grapa
