BY KAREN BOSSICK
A simple swab on the cheek could help save a young Hailey girl who was diagnosed with a rare immune disorder four years ago.
The Wood River YMCA and Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation are hosting a bone marrow donor drive to find a match for 8-year-old Charlie Everson, the daughter of Blake and Kate (Whitcomb) Everson.
Everson has STAT 1 gain-of function (GOF), a genetic disorder that has prompted her immune system to attack her digestive system. As a result, she can’t absorb food.
She has received weekly infusions to reduce inflammation and help her achieve the growth that would come with a growing child, but she’s reached the point where she needs a bone marrow transplant.
She could live a full, healthy life with a transplant.
Those who would like to have their cheek swabbed to see if they’re a match must be between 18 and 35 years of age and a U.S. resident.
Potential donors can show up for in-person testing during the drive from 8:30 a.m. to noon at the Wood River YMCA in Ketchum. Potential donors can register by texting CHARLIE5B to 61474.