The De Los Santos family first experienced the complexities of Fanconi anemia as they endured the devastating loss of their daughter, Gracie, who passed away from complications following her bone marrow transplant. Later, genetic testing revealed that Katherine would be born with FA as well.
Katherine faced bone marrow failure at age eight, and thankfully her health stabilized after a successful transplant. She went on to pursue her academic dreams, earning an undergraduate degree in Biology with a minor in Chemistry. When the pandemic struck, she returned home and immersed herself in healthcare. She worked as a medical assistant in pediatrics and cardiology, all while contributing to her community through volunteer work with Be The Match, The Icla da Silva Foundation, and mission trips with her church.
Her passion for healthcare led her to pursue a master’s degree at Mercer University last fall, where she began the Preclinical Sciences program with the goal of attending medical school.
However, just five days before Christmas, her path took a sudden turn when she was diagnosed with esophageal cancer during the Fanconi Anemia Cancer Screening Study, conducted at the NIH.
This cancer diagnosis changed Katherine’s life. It felt like any hope to become a doctor and pursuing her passion came to a standstill.
Dr. Giri and the team at the NIH guided her through understanding her health. Their attentiveness and expertise made her feel truly seen and heard, especially after her cancer went undetected despite previous doctor visits. Though receiving this diagnosis and treatment paused her aspirations, the outstanding care she received reignited her passion to make a difference in the world of healthcare.
“Cancer may have affected my body, but it has not conquered my spirit. It has taken some strength, but never my joy or resilience. I am here today, stronger and more determined than ever.”
Now in recovery, she is back on track with her studies and is preparing to apply to medical school this year. The profound impact that compassionate, knowledgeable healthcare providers can have on a patient’s life stayed with Katherine since her cancer diagnosis. Recognizing that many rural communities, including those in her home state of Georgia, lack access to high-quality healthcare, she is determined to make a difference by serving children in these underserved areas.
We are honored to support Katherine as she pursues her goals by presenting her with the 2024 Winn/Byrd Award. We are confident that Katherine will continue to make an impact within healthcare and undoubtedly become a resource to patients and children in rural communities and beyond, ensuring they have access to the care and attention they deserve.
Robin Lewis Receives Second Place
This year, the committee honors Robin Lewis who has made remarkable progress, alongside his wife, in establishing Matches on the Map. Through this initiative, they have traveled across South Africa, recruiting bone marrow donors and raising awareness about the need for lifesaving matches. Robin’s goal is to sign up 1,000 potential donors each year while creating sustainable recruitment efforts at universities and schools that will continue long after their journey. Additionally, they are integrating FA support groups within South Africa as they continue to grow their educational talks and recruitment drives. We eagerly anticipate seeing the lives they will touch. Congratulations, Robin!
