I wish to go visit my bone marrow donor
Scarlet
18
gastrointestinal disorder
The Choice That Changed Scarlet’s Life
Sometimes, a single choice changes everything. For Ralf, that choice was saying “yes” to donating bone marrow to a 5-month-old baby he had never met in a country thousands of miles away. That one selfless act didn’t just save a life – it forged an unbreakable bond.
At just 5 weeks old, Scarlet was diagnosed with a rare immune disorder that could only be cured through a bone marrow transplant. Scarlet’s formidable months began in isolation, staying in-patient at Seattle Children’s Hospital.
Five months into Scarlet’s journey, hope arrived. A donor had been found. That donor was Ralf, a German Navy serviceman, whose selfless decision would save Scarlet’s life.
“We feel deeply grateful for this person that willingly gave and saved her and allowed her to have this life that she had,” shared Scarlet’s mom, Kati. “This person [Ralf] that gave this incredible gift without knowing us.”
The transplant immediately tied two worlds together. When Scarlet turned three, Ralf visited her for the first time. Since then, he’s never missed a holiday or birthday without reaching out. Over the years, Ralf became more than a donor; he became family.
Over a decade later, Scarlet qualified for Make-A-Wish because of a gastrointestinal disorder. She knew exactly what she wanted: to reunite with Ralf in his hometown in Germany. She was too young to remember their first encounter and wanted to learn more about the person who gave her a second chance. Discovering Ralf’s story felt like uncovering a part of her own, because their lives were forever intertwined.
Scarlet’s wish penned a beautiful, new chapter into their incredible journey. During their visit, Ralf spent time with Scarlet and her family every day. From dinners to local attractions, Ralf gave them an insider tour of his charming hometown. He wanted Scarlet’s trip to be unforgettable, like she was to him.
“It was so joyful getting to spend time with Ralf and for him and Scarlet to get to know each other. He is so loving and good, and it was a very special time for us all to connect and share stories,” said Kati. “He felt like family. The connection was incredible.”
Even now, Scarlet frequents the hospital – sometimes traveling to Boston for treatment. But her wish gave her precious memories to cling to and a chance to go the distance...for family.
Isn’t that the beauty of a wish? It’s a choice that changes everything.
Special thanks to Tukwila Cheesecake Factory, SeaTac Park, Make-A-Wish America and wish-granting volunteers Ken Kieffer and Lou Cutler!
Learn more about Scarlet’s incredible story – as featured in the Wenatchee World.
