AMARILLO, TEXAS -- She's only 7 years old but she's already in the fight of her life.

Paige Carlson and her family are waiting for a bone marrow transplant. Now her family is hoping their story will raise awareness of the importance of blood donations and bone marrow testing. When she was born, Paige was diagnosed with a blood platelet disorder. She's been stable, until last December, when her parents found out her bone marrow was failing, and she was diagnosed with aplastic anemia. Paige has had nine blood and platelet transfusions since then, and she's now at the point where she needs one every five days.

"The biggest thing that's kept her alive is volunteer blood donations at Coffee Memorial Blood Center and just been a great gift the blood that she's received," said John Carlson, Paige's father. 

The Children's Medical Center in Dallas has found potential bone marrow donors, but there is still testing that needs to be done. Now the Carlson's just wait on a phone call. Until then, her parents want you to know the importance of being a donor.

"Give the gift of life. Donate blood at Coffee Memorial Blood Center and join the National Registry Program at bethematch.org you could be the difference, you can make a difference ," said Carlson. 

Unfortunately, insurance only covers a small portion of Paige's medical expenses. To help, her school, Margaret Wills Elementary has organized a fundraiser Friday, April 1 at both Rosa's Cafe locations. You can also donate at any Amarillo National Bank location under Paige's name. 

We have received a large amount of response from people wanting to donate blood to Paige. Unfortunately, Coffee Memorial Blood Center says donated blood can not be specified for one person, but you can start a Tree of Life in her honor and you can ask about it at the front desk.

Coffee Memorial Blood Center - click on name for a map

7500 Wallace Blvd
Amarillo, TX 79124
(806) 358-4563

For a list of Amarill National Bank Locations, click here