Jake Smith

Jake and his oldest brother were both diagnosed with a rare genetic disease called Chronic Granulomatous Disease (CGD) in 1989 when Jake was 18-months-old and his brother, Justin, was four-years-old. CGD inhibits the white blood cells from killing bacteria or fungus, and as a result, the boys are susceptible to a range of life-threatening infections. At the time of their diagnosis, we were told our boys would likely not live past puberty, and there was no one in the state who could provide medical treatment.

As a boy, Jake never had as many infections as his brother. Though the disease is the same in each of them, it has presented itself very differently in Jake. When he was 11 the CGD caused secondary medical problems similar to Chrohn’s and COPD (his lungs now function like those of an elderly man with end-stage emphysema). His doctors have told us that Jake’s only chance at a healthy life is to have a bone marrow transplant to combat the lung issues he now faces. It is an experimental procedure with an unrelated donor match. The process will begin September 29, 2013.

Jake is dedicated to his education and works tirelessly to get good grades. He is on full academic scholarship, though some years he has been hospitalized 8-10 times within the course of a school year. His infectious laugh and attitude of mental toughness have been a source of strength for many, many people who know HIM. As one of Jake’s professors at NWOSU stated, “…if most of my students had even half of Jacob’s willpower and determination, my job would be the easiest one around.”

Even with insurance, Jake will have many uninsured transplant-related expenses such as travel to and from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) transplant center in Maryland, meals and temporary relocation housing for himself and a caregiver for up to a year.

To help with this burden, a fundraising campaign in Jake’s honor has been established with HelpHOPELive, a nonprofit organization that has been assisting the transplant community for 30 years. All donations are tax-deductible, are held by HelpHOPELive in the Southeast Bone Marrow Transplant Fund, and are administered by HelpHOPELive for transplant-related expenses only. Your contribution is greatly appreciated.Thank you all for your prayers and support as Jake tackles the next phase of his life.

Sincerely,

Jennifer Schlosberg
918.408.5567
“The life you will be living one year from today will be a result of the actions you take today. Make good choices!”