Mississippi Community Races To Find Bone Marrow Match For 11-Year-Old Pillow Academy Student; Urgent Call To 18-35s

Mississippi girl With Rare Disease Seeks bone marrow Transplant As Community Rallies

USA: An 11-year-old fifth grader at Pillow Academy in Greenwood, identified as Kate, faces a rare illness that now requires a bone marrow transplant, and families, friends and organizations across Mississippi are mobilizing to find a match. Kate, who hopes to be a librarian or author, remains engaged in school and life even as she manages persistent, high-level pain that her father, David, says she endures quietly while keeping up with chores and homework.

Local advocates have launched a coordinated outreach under the banner “Team Kate,” encouraging prospective donors to join the registry. Organizers say the effort spans community events and partner organizations statewide, with updates and drives planned to increase the pool of potential matches. The need for transplant and the search for a compatible living donor are the central focus as medical teams and community leaders press for a timely match.

Kate and her family have emphasized her active role in managing care and decisions, underscoring her resilience and spirit despite daily challenges. Her father speaks openly about fluctuations in her condition and the pain she copes with, and the family is asking the public to respond to the life-changing possibility that a successful transplantation could bring.

Community leaders are coordinating practical ways for people to help while tailoring outreach to age and eligibility. Organizers note that many efforts are underway to register new donors and raise awareness across the state, with plans to share progress and next steps in coming days.

Video originally published on 2026-03-05 13:52:40