THE FUSE

Since her diagnosis with Aplastic Anaemia, Kaitlin Ogle has faced a reality where fatigue is constant, and infections are a persistent threat. Yet she remains hopeful that her lifesaver is out there.

Durban, South Africa (09 February 2026) – They say you never truly know how strong you are until being strong is the only choice you have. A sentiment that holds much truth for 25-year-old Kaitlin Ogle, whose daily life is a test of her strength and remarkable resilience.

Since her diagnosis with Aplastic Anaemia, Kaitlin has faced a reality where fatigue is constant, infections are a real danger, and every fever brings fear. However, alongside her mother, Lorraine Ogle, the two are holding steadfast to hope, waiting for the day her lifesaver finally arrives.

“Life after the diagnosis has been nothing like before; everything changed in an instant,” Lorraine shares with us.

“Our days are measured in blood counts and hospital visits, simple things like going out or shopping are no longer simple. Yet, in the middle of all this, we’ve discovered a strength we didn’t know we had.”

Kaitlin shows courage daily, and her resilience is nothing short of inspiring. On her hardest days, when fear creeps in and exhaustion takes over, she leans on God for strength.

To overcome this health battle, Kaitlin requires a stem cell donor transplant – a mission greatly supported by DKMS Africa.

“They helped us understand the donor process and gave us hope that a match is possible. Knowing that there is an organisation actively searching for a life-saving donor for my daughter has brought us comfort and strength,” Lorraine says.

The devoted mom admits that she never imagined she might one day depend on a stranger to help save her daughter’s life, but it is a hope she is holding onto.

“If a matching donor is found for my daughter, it would mean everything. It would mean freedom from constant hospital visits, blood transfusions and daily fear of infection. It would mean the opportunity to truly live her young adult life – to work, plan, dream and look forward to a future that currently feels on hold.”

Somewhere out there is a matching donor who could give Kaitlin a second chance at health and healing.

To register as a stem cell donor, you can visit the Donor Registration Drive happening at the MCC Offices, Mariannridge Library Complex, Shop No. 2, Mercury Crescent on 14 February from 10 am to 3 pm.

Alternatively, you can connect with DKMS Africa for a drive near you or for more information.

Sources: Lorraine Ogle

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