Bryan Osterhoudt

Bryan Osterhoudt
Bryan is an energetic 23 month old that can make anyone smile. In July 2011 Bryan was taken to the hospital for severe unexplained bruising and was covered with red dots (petechiae). After blood tests were done he was diagnosed with ITP (Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura) which is low blood platelet count. This causes severe bruising and bleeding. ITP can cause internal bleeding and the biggest fear is intracranial hemorrhage. After being rushed to Albany Medical Center and under going many blood treatments of IVG (plasma), Winhro, and steroids they preformed a bone marrow test to see if his body was making the proper amount of platelets and to test for other possible problems since treatments weren’t working. The test came back positive in that his body was making the platelets, but it was also found his body was destroying his platelets almost as fast as he was making them.
Now many months later Bryan is still at a critical count (0-5,000) (normal 150,000-450,000). Bryan wears a helmet when he plays, his activities are very limited almost nonexistent, but he has the biggest smile and enjoys life as if nothing has been taken away from him. He loves to play with his 3 siblings and adores his dog.

Do you have extra cans and bottles? You can donate them to the PBJ. Drop them off at the Redemption Center at 459 Chestnut Street in Oneonta. 607-433-9750. Tell them that they are for the PBJ Kids!