TAMPA, FL --The school year started like another at Plant High School in South Tampa.
But then, teacher Tamara Phillips became concerned over an infection on her face. It was far more serious than she thought and she was checked into a local hospital.
Doctors told her she was suffering Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Doctors said AML is of great concern because the disease progresses rapidly.
According to school officials, Tamara was immediately transferred to Moffitt Cancer Center. There she began chemotherapy and blood transfusions.
But this is just the beginning of her fight. Tamara needs a blood transfusion. But, there is yet another stumbling block.
Her tissue type does not does not match anyone in her immediate family.
Students at Plant High School along with their parents and staff decided to help take action for this beloved teacher.
They are sponsoring a blood and marrow registry drive on Monday, November 2, 2009 at Plant High School. Bloodmobiles will be parked on the school campus from 7:30 am until 3:30 pm.
The effort does not stop there. Sweet Tomatoes restaurants throughout Tampa Bay are also hosting a blood and marrow registry drive in support of Tamara and other patients in need.
Bloodmobiles will be located at a Sweetbay on Dale Mabry in Tampa. Adamo Drive in Brandon and on Seminole Boulevard in Largo. The bloodmobiles will be at the locations from 11 am until 6 pm. at these Sweet Tomatoes locations.
The restaurant is also offering donors a complimentary meal pass from Sweet Tomatoes, a Martina McBride apron and check-ups on blood pressure, iron count, and cholesterol screening.
Blood donors seeking to see if they are a match for Tamara or even for others in need must be between the ages of 18 and 60 and meet other guidelines. Simple swabs from inside the mouth to collect DNA is also required along with registration paperwork.
Students, faculty and loved ones of Tamara only hope there is a match somewhere out there.
