By Paige Zulandt

When 13-year-old Kaemey Young received an unexpected diagnosis in November 2024, it came as a shock to not only her family, but her doctors as well.

“I think even her oncologist was shocked because initially when they looked at her blood results, no one suspected that it could be leukemia,” Kaemey’s mother Kayla shares. “Kaemey had played like four basketball games within the previous six days.”

Her journey began in late October 2024 when she developed unexplained hives. What started as a routine visit to the allergist quickly became a life-changing diagnosis. After her parents insisted on additional bloodwork—despite no immediate cause for concern—results revealed critically low white blood cell counts. Further testing and a bone marrow biopsy led to the diagnosis of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) on November 6, 2024.

Kayla recalls going to the hospital and thinking that they would get through this together. And not only did the family come together, but their community did as well. Kayla says from the moment they received the call about Kaemey’s diagnosis, the support has “been overwhelming from our community and communities that touch us.”

The Shelbyville community showed their support at the In Honor of Kaemey Young Blood Drive on June 19, 2025. Kaemey’s older sister, Kaegan, worked with the American Red Cross of Tennessee to host this drive to help her sister and others in need of blood.

“My sister has had many hospital stays and has had to have many blood transfusions,” Kaegan shares. “And you just see the immediate change in that it helps her so much and gives her so much energy.”

The blood drive was a big success, with 158 units of blood collected. They saw 131 donors, with 54 of those being first-time blood donors.

When it comes to the importance of donating blood, Kayla thinks about how bad Kaemey can feel before she receives a transfusion. She’s seen just how much blood is needed for her during her treatment.

“The thought of going to clinic and being told that there is no blood, really puts it in perspective,” Kayla shares.

Kaemey also encourages people to donate if they can. She knows its importance firsthand and wants to help others undergoing treatment.

“Just seeing how much better I feel after one transfusion,” Kaemey says.

Kaemey had just finished her fourth cycle of treatment ahead of the blood drive in June. As she continues her leukemia battle, she is looking forward to getting back out on the basketball court and even playing softball. Warm weather in Tennessee also brings fun days outside in the pool and sunshine before she begins her next round of treatment.

Despite the challenges she faces, Kaemey remains resilient and hopeful, bolstered by her deep faith and the unwavering support of her family, friends and community.

“We’re just so thankful for everyone’s support, for Kaemey and for our family,” Kayla shares. “And we’re thankful that God has given us the ability to shine a light and be that avenue for those that want to help.”

If you are interested in donating blood, you can find a blood drive near you and schedule an appointment by visiting RedCrossBlood.org.