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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.

Cristina

acute myeloid leukemia (AML)

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Mayra

acute myeloid leukemia (AML)

Matt

acute myeloid leukemia (AML)

Owen

acute myeloid leukemia (AML)

Kelsey

acute myeloid leukemia (AML)

Brody

mixed phenotype acute leukemia (MPAL)

Nancy

acute myeloid leukemia (AML)

Genesis

acute myeloid leukemia (AML)

Kerry

myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS)

Timothy

acute myeloid leukemia (AML)

Stuart

caregiver

Michael

acute myeloid leukemia (AML)

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