In June 2022, 16-year-old Patrick McLaughlin was officially diagnosed with aplastic anemia, a rare form of bone marrow failure. Inspired by Patrick’s journey and his resilience throughout this process, the Boys & Girls Club of Marshfield decided to run an event to raise funds and awareness for those with aplastic anemia. According to an article in The Patriot Ledger, this is particularly powerful as Patrick’s family has been deeply involved with the Boys & Girls Club of Marshfield for years.
Given that Patrick himself plays basketball, the Points and Pints for Patrick event will include a 3v3 basketball tournament, as well as a blood drive. There will also be various auctions, live music, and food available. 100% of all proceeds from the event will be donated to the Boston Children’s Hospital Bone Marrow Failure Unit.
The blood drive will take place on October 15, 2022 from 9am-3pm. If you would like to learn more about donating blood, head here and use the code BGCM. There have been some suggestions that this particular blood drive is full; however, if you are interested in finding other ways to donate, please reach out to Boston Children’s via the above link to learn more.
As for the basketball tournament, it will take place from 11am-2pm, also on October 15. Good luck to all involved!
About Aplastic Anemia
Aplastic anemia is a rare, but serious, blood condition in which the bone marrow fails to produce enough new blood cells. This can be caused by stem cell and bone marrow damage at birth, or damage caused by chemicals, certain drugs, infections, chemotherapy, or radition exposure. Because the bone marrow does not produce enough new blood cells, the body becomes susceptible to infection, bleeding, and other health issues. Aplastic anemia can develop in people of any age. It may occur suddenly or develop over time. Symptoms can include:
- Fatigue
- Frequent or long-lasting infections
- Easy bruising and bleeding
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Nosebleeds or bleeding gums
- Shortness of breath
- Skin rash
- Headache
- Fever
