Residents in Vestal have actually come together to show their support for 3-year-old Gabby Laubisch, who was diagnosed along with leukemia a year and a half ago.
“She battled it courageously like a champ and went into remission, but unfortunately relapsed in December of 2015,” said Heidi Barry, Gabby’s aunt.
Gabby will now need a bone marrow transplant. In hopes of finding her a match, her family put together a donor drive on Wednesday night.
“The support has actually been absolutely overwhelming,” said Barry. “From the moment that we talked about organizing this event, people have actually just jumped in to volunteer, to do whatever they can.”
One of those people is Anna Bruce. It’s her very first time joining a bone marrow registry — which involves filling out a few medical forms and doing a cheek swab. She says it’s a small way to make a big difference.
“Although it may not directly affect Gabby, there are so numerous other kids and people that are in the same situation,” said Bruce.
Family members say they’re thrilled along with the turnout. They’re predicting that by the end of this, it will equate to about one swab per minute.
“Our community’s amazing, and it’s actually, when we ask for help, it comes in volumes and it’s just so wonderful,” said Molly Morgan, Gabby’s aunt.
“It’s amazing to see all these people here tonight,” said Chris Laubisch, Gabby’s uncle.
The family says it’s that kind of support that keeps them and Gabby strong.
“I think it’s events like this and our family — we’re really close — and it makes it hard to talk about, but, we’re always there for each other,” Laubisch said.
If you’d like to find out more about how to become a bone marrow donor, you can visit this link.
