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Robyn is
Blood Cancer United

Robyn, outside in a black jacket looking at camera

In October 2017, my wife Robyn Oshita passed away after a valiant two-and-a-half month battle against acute myeloid leukemia (AML). She was a loving wife, mother, and friend to everyone she met.

Up until she was diagnosed, Robyn had been healthy all her life. In July 2017, after telling her cardiologist that she was experiencing shortness of breath and bruising easily, the doctor ordered her to have complete blood work done prior to her having a cardio-catheter exam. When the results came back, it was discovered that her platelets were low (10,000 versus a normal range of 150,000 - 450,000). 

Two weeks later after having a bone marrow biopsy, Robyn was diagnosed with Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS) with a low number of blasts cells (<5). We were told her MDS was expected to convert to acute myeloid leukemia (AML) within seven months if left untreated. Unfortunately, her MDS converted to AML in two months where she required both blood and human leucocyte antigen (HLA) platelet transfusions twice a week due to the platelet antibodies that had formed.

In an effort to honor Robyn and continue her legacy of helping others, the Oshita family started a foundation to provide support to families battling MDS and AML so that they will not have to undergo the pain and heartbreak our family experienced.

Gregg

In Loving Memory

We are Blood Cancer United.

Everyone affected by blood cancer—patients, survivors, caregivers, researchers, advocates, fundraisers, everyone—has a story. Share yours.
Jarvis, Pre B acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) patient

Jarvis

Pre-B acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL)

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Savanna

pre-B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (pre-B-ALL)

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Liam

acute myeloid leukemia (AML)

Headshot of Isabelle - a young woman with blond hair and blue eyes

Isabelle

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A participant wearing athletic clothing and a finisher medal stands outdoors holding a handmade sign that reads, “There’s never been a finish line that you haven’t crossed.” The image highlights perseverance, advocacy, and community support connected to a blood cancer survivor story. Featured as part of blood cancer awareness efforts, the photo represents determination, hope, and the milestones achieved by individuals and families affected by blood cancer.

Lisa

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Two individuals wearing protective gowns, gloves, masks, and safety glasses stand inside a hospital or medical facility with large windows overlooking a city skyline. Both give a thumbs-up gesture while preparing for or participating in a medical procedure. Featured in a blood cancer patient story, the image highlights treatment, caregiving, hope, and resilience, reflecting the support and advanced care available to people affected by blood cancer.

Philice

acute myeloid leukemia (AML

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Elizabeth

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Individual wrapped in a white and tan towel or blanket sits outdoors among trees, looking toward the camera. The peaceful natural setting and reflective atmosphere highlight themes of healing, resilience, and wellness often shared within the blood cancer community. This image supports blood cancer awareness, survivorship storytelling, and personal experiences of individuals affected by blood cancer.

Jason

acute myeloid leukemia (AML)

Head-and-shoulders portrait of a young person wearing a white dress shirt and patterned tie, photographed against a softly lit background with warm decorative lights. This image accompanies a blood cancer survivor story, highlighting resilience, hope, and the impact of blood cancer on young adults and families. Ideal for content focused on blood cancer awareness, survivorship, patient advocacy, and inspirational personal stories.

Andrew

Family member and supporter

Portrait of a blood cancer survivor with short hair seated in a vehicle and looking toward the camera. This image represents blood cancer awareness, survivorship, patient advocacy, recovery after treatment, and hope for people living with leukemia, lymphoma, and other blood cancers.

Mazie

acute myeloid leukemia (AML)

Family of five seated together on a sofa in a modern indoor setting. This image represents the role of family support throughout the blood cancer journey, highlighting caregiving, connection, and resilience for people affected by blood cancer, including patients, survivors, and their loved ones.

Rode

acute myeloid leukemia (AML)

Close-up portrait of an older adult indoors wearing a zip-up jacket, seated in a room with shelves and a wall clock visible in the background—highlighting everyday life, strength, and lived experience within the blood cancer community and survivorship awareness.

Elaine

acute myeloid leukemia (AML)

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) is now Blood Cancer United. Learn more.