Joanna Janowiak was diagnosed with aplastic anemia aplastic anemia: (ay-PLASS-tik uh-NEE_mee-uh) A rare and serious condition in which the bone marrow fails to make enough blood cells - red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. The term aplastic is a Greek word meaning not to form. Anemia is a condition that happens when red blood cell count is low. Most… in September 2003. She had been feeling tired for quite some time, and her constant headaches prompted her to visit her doctor. Some tests and a CT scan CT scan: An imaging technique using x-ray technology and computerization to create a three-dimentional image of a body part. Also called a CT scan, it can be used to locate a blood clot in the body. were done, but since no tumors were found, she was sent home.
Her headaches continued and her exhaustion persisted, so she returned to the doctor. Various blood tests were done. Again, she went home, and the next day, she received the call that she needed to go to the hospital for a blood transfusion blood transfusion: A procedure in which whole blood or one of its components is given to a person through an intravenous (IV) line into the bloodstream. A red blood cell transfusion or a platelet transfuson can help some patients with low blood counts. immediately.
She first called her husband Steve with the news, and as she was calling 911, she passed out on the kitchen floor. At the hospital, two days later, she was diagnosed with aplastic anemia.
She received blood transfusions blood transfusions: A blood transfusion is a safe and common procedure. Most people who have a bone marrow failure disease like aplastic anemia, MDS or PNH will receive at least one blood transfusion. When you receive a blood transfusion, parts of blood from a donor are put into your bloodstream. This can help some… and underwent treatment — and fortunately, she responded well. In October 2004, just over a year after her diagnosis, she was in remission.
With Joanna’s health improved, Steve wanted to find a way to raise awareness and money for research. So, he stepped up his triathalon training. In 2008, he set the goal to participate in two Ironman triathalons in one week! With the help of a professional trainer, he accomplished his lofty goal on September 7, 2008 after participating in the Ironman Wisconsin and Ironman Louisville.