Paisley Catallo was diagnosed with Anaplastic Ependymoma Grade 3 at just two years old. Anaplastic Ependymoma is a rare tumor that forms when cells in the central nervous system (including the brain and spinal cord) begin to multiply rapidly. Two days after her diagnosis, Paisley had brain surgery, and shortly after, began proton radiation for eight weeks. Following the proton radiation, she began chemotherapy. During this time, Paisley received multiple blood transfusions due to low blood counts. In December of 2018, she was cleared as cancer-free!
According to Paisley’s mother, Nikki, “Without the necessary blood during her brain surgery and throughout chemotherapy, she would not be here today. That blood saved her life.” Nikki encourages any willing and able blood donor to give the gift of life, as frequently as possible. “Imagine being on the other side, scared of losing your life or the life of your child. You are literally saving a life by donating blood.” Paisley fought her battle against Anaplastic Ependymoma for about 7 months. She still goes in regularly for MRIs to ensure the cancer does not return. She is now three years old and blooming thanks to all of her doctors, family support, and blood donors, just like you. Together, Life Flows From Here.
