When Audrey was pregnant with Courtney, she was concerned her daughter would potentially be born with sickle cell disease as she and her husband both carried the sickle cell trait. After various tests, it was revealed that Courtney would have this painful disease. Audrey was crushed. She had previously lost a nephew to sickle cell disease and was worried her daughter would meet the same fate.

Audrey went to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital® when she was six months pregnant with Courtney. “Our relationship with St. Jude started before Courtney was born,” said Audrey. She talked with doctors to determine if anything could be done to protect her precious daughter. It was decided that after Courtney was born, her treatment would begin as soon as possible.

When Courtney was 2 months old she began treatment. “We were ecstatic when we heard about all the great things being done at St. Jude concerning sickle cell disease,” said Audrey. “It’s amazing when we look at Courtney now compared to 18 months ago; her treatment has made such a visible difference. She’s just a different child. It’s amazing.”

Courtney is now 4 years old and is still undergoing treatment for sickle cell disease. She is a fun-loving, inquisitive, strong willed little girl. Courtney enjoys swimming, and will begin playing soccer in the fall. She likes to dance and play with her toys. When she grows up, Courtney said she wants to be a veterinarian.