Mission Moment | Olivia's Story

In April, Olivia was celebrating her 15th birthday when she noticed a strange rash starting to appear on her leg. She felt fine otherwise, but just to be safe, her parents sent a picture to a friend in the medical field.

Within 48 hours, Olivia was in the hospital. What started as a simple rash turned into a frightening medical mystery. Weeks passed without answers, leaving her family in a state of uncertainty and fear. Finally, after countless tests, the diagnosis came: aplastic anemia. For no known reason, Olivia’s bone marrow had stopped producing blood cells—a condition that, if left untreated, could be fatal. Her only hope was a bone marrow transplant, and time was critical. 

Fortunately, Children’s Hospital Colorado was ready to help. The challenge: they would need to leave their home in Montana and stay in Colorado for what could be months. Olivia’s mom, Genine, recalls feeling overwhelmed—until they connected with Brent’s Place. 

“We needed a place that was safe for Olivia, since she’s immunocompromised. Brent’s Place is clean and close to the hospital. Everything we need is right here. It’s such a relief,” Genine shared.

The relief wasn’t just in the practical support, but in the emotional connections Genine has made at Brent’s Place. “Being able to meet other parents who are going through the same thing has been incredible. In the common areas, people gather, share stories, and support one another. It’s comforting to know we’re not alone in this.” 

After arriving in Colorado, Olivia underwent the transplant—her bone marrow donation came from her brother, who was a perfect match. Thanks to his generosity, combined with the care she received from her parents, Children’s Hospital Colorado, and the team at Brent’s Place, Olivia is on the path to recovery. 

“It’s nice having my own room and my own space. It’s really comfortable here. I love cereal, so I like going downstairs and picking out cereal from the big cereal bar. It’s just really cozy,” Olivia shared. 

In a few months, Olivia hopes that she’ll be home and starting the next semester of school in person, instead of online, healthy and ready for the next chapter of her life.

Thanks to support from the community, Brent’s Place could be there for Olivia and her family while they navigate such a difficult time. During a health crisis, we believe everyone deserves a safe, welcoming place to rest, heal and find hope. Together, we can make that a reality for families like Olivia’s.  

Support families like Olivia’s today.