Lifelines (Fall 2000) - A Story of Determination

A Story of Determination


	Laurice Compagno & parents

Laurice Compagno works at Children’s Hospital in Oakland as the Thalassemia Outreach Coordinator. By her own admission, she is a workaholic, incorporating a three-mile walk into her daily activities as well as serving as a member of the Board of the Thalassemia Action Group. Laurice volunteers for Camp Okiza, a camp dedicated to children with cancer, loves to travel and spend time with her family and friends. Her list of activities goes on and on and the amazing thing about this vivacious young woman is that she too is a patient with thalassemia.

Thalassemia is a genetic blood disease, which causes severe anemia. Most patients are of Mediterranean descent, others are of Middle Eastern, Southern Asian or African descent. There are varying forms of the disease and symptoms can range from mild to severe anemia, and possibly lead to death. Patients with more severe types of thalassemia need regular blood transfusions to survive.

Laurice was born with thalassemia intermedia and while growing up, she was followed closely by her physicians. At age 25 Laurice was diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension. Because her body could not manufacture sufficient hemoglobin, her heart could not keep up the pace and she needed to start receiving blood transfusions. Every two to three weeks she receives two units of A positive blood, and at age 28 she remains an active and vital person in her community.

“Prior to each transfusion, I say a prayer thanking each donor for giving me life.” “I also bless and wish each donor with continued life and good health,” stated Laurice during our interview. Her love and appreciation of blood donors prompted her to organize a blood drive last year to help give back in appreciation for all the blood she has received over the last three years. An adult thalassemia patient uses about fifty units of blood per year, and must wear a pump from 8 to 12 hours per day to remove excess iron from the blood transfusions. Laurice is at risk for osteoporosis and must have tests for liver, kidney and heart function on a regular basis.

Thalassemia is a high maintenance disease, but thanks to the many blood donors who support Laurice, she is able to travel, and has visited 37 out of the 50 states. Next year she plans a return trip to Australia. We wish her all the best and continuing good health!