July 15, 2003
Cook County - Lacey Taylor is a typical, energetic nine-year-old. "I like to ride horses, swim, and play baseball," said Lacey.
But one year ago, she couldn't do any of those. "I felt bad all the time, didn't want to go outside and play, and just wanted to stay inside with my family," said Lacey.
In December of 1999, Lacey was taken to the hospital for an irregular bruise. She was diagnosed with acute lympasistic leukemia. "They told us if we had waited any longer, she would've had a stroke," said Connie Taylor, Lacey's Mom.
After months of chemotherapy and dozens of trips to Shands, Lacey was nearing remission. But her outlook soon changed. "Shortly before her last chemotherapy treatment she relapsed," said Connie.
The doctors told Lacey's parents to bring her home, and let her live out her days with her family. But they refused to give up hope.
"I told them that decision was not up to the doctors, it was up to God," said Connie.
The only hope for Lacey was a bone marrow transplant. A woman from Kansas City, Missouri was a perfect match. It's been one year since her transplant.
"I just want to tell her thank you for saving my life," said Lacey.
Now Lacey lives a healthy, happy life and is well enough to return to school in August. Her family hopes to meet the donor who saved her life soon.
posted at 3:35 by ashley.harper@walb.com
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