Alexander was diagnosed with Diamond-Blackfan anemia (DBA), an extremely rare bone marrow failure syndrome, shortly after birth. With DBA, the body’s bone marrow does not produce enough red blood cells, resulting in extreme anemia in the affected person. Alexander’s mother Maria also has DBA and the condition is genetic, so doctors knew to test him after birth. Alexander has been receiving care from Dana-Farber and Boston Children’s ever since he was born. Alexander receives monthly blood transfusions in the Jimmy Fund Clinic. His condition is considered chronic, so his treatment is ongoing. Alexander’s parents chose Dana-Farber for his treatment due to the renowned reputation of Dana-Farber and Boston Children’s, especially for their treatment of pediatric hematology/blood disorders. They say that Dana-Farber/Boston Children’s is the best possible place Alexander can be – words can’t express what the fantastic staff means to their family. Alexander attends St. Joseph’s school in Medford and enjoys watching Boston sports teams, skateboarding, movies and videogames.