Lylie Is Searching for a Life-Saving Match
A Match Could Change Lylie’s Story
17-year-old Lylie was diagnosed with Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS) in December 2025 after more than a year of searching for answers. Now reliant on regular blood transfusions, a stem cell transplant is her only chance at a cure and a matching donor could give her a second chance at life.
Lylie is a focused and determined matric student with a calm, thoughtful nature and a strong sense of compassion. Despite everything she is facing, she continues to show up for her studies and stay committed to her future.
Getting to her diagnosis was not straightforward. Over 17 months, Lylie saw more than 10 doctors and went through countless tests and procedures, including scans, bone marrow biopsies, and regular blood transfusions. Throughout it all, she handled each step with quiet strength.
In December 2025, she was diagnosed with Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS), a type of blood cancer that stops the body from making healthy blood cells. This leaves her constantly fatigued, more vulnerable to infections, and dependent on blood transfusions just to keep going.
Right now, Lylie needs transfusions every two weeks. While they help for a short time, they are not a long-term solution. A stem cell transplant offers her the only chance to recover and return to a normal, healthy life.
Even during treatment, Lylie has continued working towards completing her matric year, determined to move forward and pursue her studies. Her family and friends remain a steady source of support, helping her stay focused and hopeful.
At the moment, there are no matching donors for Lylie on local or international registries. That means her only chance lies in more people registering as stem cell donors.
You could be the match that helps change Lylie’s story. Register today as a stem cell donor.
Remember, all costs related to the donation process are covered by DKMS Africa. You will not be asked to pay for anything.
