Age 12, Connecticut
“Ella Jewell was diagnosed with Severe Congenital Neutropenia at 3 1/2 months old. After being told by many doctors in the New York City Area that they were unsure as to why Ella had zero neutrophils, her family sought out the expert opinion of the late Dr. Larry Boxer. After being in isolation with Ella for months, they drove to Michigan from New York. Dr. Boxer helped to diagnose Ella and get her on the one medication available to treat Neutropenia – GCSF/ Neupogen. The medication worked well for Ella and her family found out the medication was working on Christmas Eve. They were able to share Ella with their family for the first time on Christmas morning. Dr. Boxer referred to Ella as the Christmas Miracle Baby! Ella’s family felt fortunate for how well Ella had done and wanted to do all that they could to move research in the right direction for Ella and everyone diagnosed with Neutropenia. They asked the doctors how they could best support the research. Unfortunately, at the time there was not another organization directly assisting with funds for research. With the support of Dr. Larry Boxer and Neutropenia expert, Dr. David Dale, the Ella Jewell Foundation was established to support Neutropenia Research. The Ella Jewell Foundation works closely with the National Neutropenia Network and the Neutropenia community to help patient support programs and research. Every penny raised is donated. Ella has her challenges with her diagnosis, but her family stays positive and with the Neutropenia community and researchers, they work towards the ultimate goal ~ a cure.”
