Bone Marrow Drive Aims to Save 3-Year-Old

Gianna Lesselroth is a fighter.

At 3, she’s already proven that once and now she’s having to do it again.

Gianna was diagnosed with leukemia on Dec. 16, 2012. The spunky little girl fought back and won with the disease going into remission in December 2014. Fast forward a few months, however, and the cancer has returned. To win this time, Gianna is going to need a little help from the community.

That’s why the Bradenton Police Department is stepping forward help in the battle. The agency is playing host to a Marrow Donor Registry Drive in honor of Gianna on Tuesday, June 30, from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event takes place in the department’s lobby, 100 10th St. W.

While the drive is meant to help Gianna, a flier for the event points out that those who attend may find themselves matched to another sick child or someone else whose life could be saved by a marrow transplant.

Gianna is currently receiving treatment in Boston.

Potential bone marrow donors only need to provide a mouth swab to see if they are a match. Donors must be between the ages of 18 and 44 and in generally good health.

For more information about Tuesday’s drive, call 941-725-2452.

Photo collage courtesy of the Bradenton Police Department