A young girl was diagnosed with a rare bone marrow disorder after her mother expressed concerns that were initially dismissed by doctors as constipation and first-time parent anxiety. Amy Dixon, aged 32, welcomed Freya into the world in December 2020, noticing early signs that worried her.
Freya exhibited frequent crying and fatigue, appearing unusually pale just four weeks after birth. Despite multiple visits to the doctor’s office, medical professionals attributed her symptoms to constipation and Amy’s anxiety as a new mother.
On March 11, 2021, Freya lost consciousness and was rushed to Airedale Hospital, where medical staff noted her extreme paleness. After being resuscitated, she was transferred to Leeds Children’s Hospital for intensive care. In October 2021, at 10 months old, Freya was diagnosed with Diamond-Blackfan Anemia Syndrome (DBAS), a rare condition causing insufficient red blood cell production in the bone marrow.
Freya underwent two steroid trials to boost red blood cell production and now receives regular blood transfusions at Leeds Children’s Hospital. A bone marrow transplant is essential for her long-term survival, and a suitable donor has been located after a year of waiting.
She is scheduled for the transplant at Leeds Children’s Hospital on September 8. Amy, a full-time mother from Bradford, expressed relief upon receiving Freya’s diagnosis and shared her anxiety about the upcoming transplant. Despite the challenges, she admires Freya’s bravery and resilience.
After a seemingly normal pregnancy, Amy and her ex-partner James Dixon welcomed Freya into the world, noticing her unusual behavior and pale complexion. Freya’s deteriorating health led to her collapse in March 2021, prompting urgent medical attention.
Freya’s low hemoglobin levels were a cause for concern, leading to her diagnosis with DBAS. Steroid trials were unsuccessful, and she now relies on blood transfusions. A bone marrow donor was found, and Freya is preparing for the transplant to improve her quality of life.
Amy is grateful for the care provided by Leeds Children’s Hospital and remains optimistic about Freya’s future. She is currently fundraising for a trip to Disneyland Paris once Freya has fully recovered, knowing that it would bring immense joy to her daughter, a Disney enthusiast.
For donations, visit www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/freyabmt.