By Jennifer Kohlhepp, Managing Editor
Daniel Applegate missed the last two months of school this year and is in critical condition because of a relapse with a rare disease.
The 11-year-old Bordentown Township resident was diagnosed with Evans Syndrome on Dec. 13, 2011. Evans syndrome is a rare autoimmune disorder in which the body makes antibodies that destroy the red blood cells, platelets and white blood cells.
Daniel receives blood transfusions because his body continues to break down red blood cells, according to his mother, Dawn Applegate.
”Since Daniel has had so many transfusions it is harder to match the antibodies in the blood to his,” his mother said. “The hospital is sending down the blood drive team on July 25 for a special drive for Daniel. Because his blood is so rare it took them over 12 hours to get him units of blood last time and he went to critical because of it.”
The blood drive will take place on July 25 from 2-8 p.m. at the Bordentown Senior Center, located at 3 Municipal Drive in Bordentown.
Daniel’s blood type is A positive but with rare anitbodies so his family is asking area residents with A positive and O positive blood types to consider donating.
”This past relapse with Daniel really scared us,” his mother said. “I thought he would go and get his IVIG treatment and high doses of steroids and it would make it better like the past few times. This time was a whole different story.”
After receiving nine units of blood, he started chemotherapy to help keep his counts normal range. After the chemotherapy began he started having kidney and liver problems. He also had to have a stent put in.
Daniel’s family has set up a “gofundme” campaign to help with medical expenses. They have a goal of raising $5,075 and have thus far raised $3,530.
For more information about Daniel or to help his family with his medical expenses, visit www.gofundme.com/danielsfight.

