Fundraiser Event For Local Woman In Desperate Need of Bone Marrow Transplant

Local friends and family are coming together with hopes of not only raising money for a loved one's illness, they are seeking a possible donor for a much needed bone marrow transplant for Robin Gibson from the Mammoth Cave community.

Robin, age 54, is a mother, aunt, sister, cousin, daughter, and friend. She is a local native, born and raised with five sisters, in Edmonson/Grayson County Kentucky. She has spent the last 25 years working at a store built by her father (Dennie Gipson), the Second Chance Consignment and Variety on Nolin Dam Road.

"The shop has been a place where Robin serves her community," as stated in Robin's bio that is currently being shared by her friends. "She offers goods at reasonable prices, she gives to families in need, and donates to local causes. Robin is known by many for her hard work. kind heart, and giving soul. In 2013, the shop caught fire and partially burned down. Robin could have walked away but instead she kept her commitment to the community and rebuilt."

"Despite all the good in her heart, unfortunately Robin was diagnosed with Myelodysplastic Syndrome in 2021, a bone marrow failure disorder. It stops normal production of bone marrow and causes red blood cells to destroy white blood cells. The news was heavy and what happened next, no one saw coming. Less than a year later, Robin was also diagnosed with Neoplasms and learned it caused cancer in her spleen. In efforts to keep the cancer from spreading. she is in desperate need of a bone marrow transplant."

According to those who are currently organizing an upcoming fundraising event, she has been on the transplant list for almost 2 months and still waiting for a match. "Statistically only 30% of people ever find a match," the bio said. "We have partnered with DKMS and will be hosting Match Party in hopes of giving Robin her very own second chance. A Match Party tent will be set up for testing from 9am till close. DKMS will perform a simple cheek swab at no cost to you or you may request a kit free of charge from the DKMS website."

More updates and event info will be available on an event Facebook Page, which will be announced soon.

"Our goal is to find Robin's match and raise money to supply the treatment and care she is in desperate need of. Her Match Party/Benefit Fundraiser is planned for Saturday August 20th at the Brownsville Community Center," the group said.