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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.
Headshot of Michele a Leukemia Survivor smiling, wearing a white sweater.

Michele

Leukemia Survivor

Smiling man with hooded jacket

Kamal

Leukemia Survivor

Image of Minerva, an AML Survivor

Minerva

AML Survivor

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Lynette

Volunteer

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Deanna

ALL Survivor

Headshot of Todd wearing suit and tie, a cancer survivor

Todd

Volunteer

Two people sit close together in a cozy room decorated with bright pink flower murals, their bodies angled toward one another in quiet support. The soft lighting, comfortable chairs, and small box of tissues on the armrest create a gentle, intimate atmosphere—reflecting the tenderness, strength, and deep compassion shared by families and friends whose lives have been touched by blood cancer.

Claire

Family member and supporter/donor

Woman wearing a pastel pink athletic zip-up jacket with her arms crossed, leaning on rail in park.

Gabriele

acute myeloid leukemia (AML)

A shirtless runner wearing black shorts and a race bib strides forward on a city street during a race event. Other runners and bright murals appear in the background, creating an energetic atmosphere. The image could accompany a story or campaign supporting blood cancer awareness, highlighting strength, resilience, and community involvement.

Luke

leukemia

in memory Young child sitting outdoors and looking toward the camera while being held by an adult. The child is wearing a light-colored outfit and a large white bow headband. This photo supports a pediatric blood cancer story, highlighting childhood blood cancer awareness, family support, and the experiences of children affected by leukemia, lymphoma, and other blood cancers.

Maria

Family member, caregiver, supporter

Snapshot of Anna in her graduation gown, a cancer survivor

Anna

acute myeloid leukemia (AML)

Close-up portrait of a blood cancer patient lying in a hospital bed wearing a patterned hospital gown. The patient has a shaved head, likely related to cancer treatment, and looks directly at the camera. Medical bedding and a hospital setting are visible in the background, illustrating the realities of blood cancer treatment, hospitalization, and survivorship.

Alana

acute myeloid leukemia (AML)

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