LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- A Louisville teen that has spent her time helping others is getting support after being diagnosed with leukemia just a week ago.
Kaitlyn Clements is 15. She and her family have been longtime supporters of Blanket Louisville's annual drive. And now, for the first time in 10 years, Kaitlyn -- who volunteers for several other organizations -- is disappointed that she won't be able to take part in the blanket drive that benefits the homeless and less fortunate.
The unexpected diagnosis happened this past weekend, when Kaitlyn said she wasn't feeling well. That's when her dad took her to an urgent care center. After a blood test, she was rushed to the hospital. A day later she was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). Further tests revealed she has a rare form of ALL that will require chemotherapy and radiation.
Kaitlyn's father, Chris Clements, talked with organizers of Blanket Louisville about the diagnosis and told them his daughter was disappointed to miss the event this year, but Blanket Louisville is now renaming the event this weekend "Kaitlyn's Collection." Kaitlyn's father said she "got the biggest smile" when she found out her name is being used.
In a news release from the organization, the Assumption High School sophomore said, "I am so happy to still be able to help even though I cannot be there. I have a long fight ahead of me with a lot of support, and so many are in a different fight with no support. I am so happy to be able to help."
"Kaitlyn's Collection" for Blanket Louisville will be held Saturday, Nov. 22 in the Assumption High School parking lot on the corner of Bardstown Road and Tyler Lane. Blankets can be donated from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Blanket Louisville President Kathy Fehder praised Kaitlyn's giving nature. "Kaitlyn has helped us collect blankets since she was in kindergarten. And to see her courage and wanting to help others from her hospital bed is so inspirational. She has such a servant spirit."
Blanket Louisville is a nonprofit organization that collects and distributes new and gently used blankets to area homeless shelters and outreach organizations. For more information, visit www.BlanketLouisville.org
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