When Catherine and John were expecting their second child, Olivia, a routine appointment with Catherine’s specialist introduced a possibility the family hadn’t yet considered. The physician’s question, “Are you going to save Olivia’s stem cells?”, sparked a meaningful conversation that would open new doors for their family’s future. Catherine learned that Olivia’s cord blood could potentially be used in an experimental treatment due to Cooper’s HIE diagnosis.*
After some research and a recommendation from her OB/GYN, the family was enrolled in the Newborn Possibilities Program™ based on Cooper’s diagnosis. Olivia was born in June 2023 when Cooper was 21 months old, and to the delight of the family, the siblings were a perfect genetic match. “Having the stem cells available really gave us hope,” Catherine explained, “something we could turn to in an uncertain time.” Their story is a powerful illustration of the peace of mind that comes from being informed and prepared.
A journey toward a brighter future
On Cooper’s second birthday, he received an infusion of Olivia’s cord blood through Duke University’s Expanded Access Protocol (EAP). This EAP provides experimental cord blood infusions for eligible children with HIE and other pediatric brain injuries.1 Cooper’s participation in this protocol marked a significant step in his journey.
Catherine recalled that about nine months after the infusion, a timeline she associated with brain healing and typical childhood development, Cooper said “mama” for the first time and his speech began to develop from there. Catherine expressed her amazement at their son’s progress, “We’ll never know, but if he hadn’t gotten [the infusion] done, I really don’t think he would be doing what he is today.”
At the time of Catherine’s interview, she and John were expecting their third child, and were re-enrolled in the Newborn Possibilities Program™. The family hoped to pursue a second infusion for Cooper under Duke’s EAP using cord blood from his new sibling. Catherine reflects on her gratitude for being made aware of her newborn stem cell preservation options: “Thank goodness my specialist just mentioned it in passing, because if she hadn’t, it wouldn’t have even crossed our mind.” This story demonstrates the profound impact healthcare providers can have when they share emerging scientific knowledge, empowering families to make informed, proactive decisions.
The field of regenerative medicine is continuously advancing, and researchers are exploring how newborn stem cells can be used to address a broad number of conditions. This progress offered hope to Catherine’s family in a time of uncertainty. Preserving Olivia’s newborn stem cells provided access to an experimental treatment opportunity that aimed to improve Cooper’s quality of life.‡
Planning for your family’s future
This family’s experience is a heartfelt reminder of why so many parents choose to bank their baby’s newborn stem cells. It’s a valuable resource that could potentially be used for future treatments. Preserving these cells means your family has access to what could be an important medical resource that may play a critical role in meeting future health needs.
Expecting a child, or have friends or family who are? Join Cells for Life today or refer a friend When someone you refer preserves with Cells for Life, you’ll receive a cheque or storage credit to fund your storage fees.† — and they’ll receive special pricing on our newborn stem cell bundle.