Alabama 9-year-old with sickle cell disease returns home after life-saving transplant from sister
By Ryan Lovell
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LEEDS, Ala. (WVTM) — 9-year-old Isaiah Brooks is finally back home with his family after undergoing a bone marrow transplant to treat sickle cell disease.
Isaiah’s recovery at Children’s of Alabama meant weeks away from his siblings, but the family is now reunited under one roof. His 8-year-old sister, Isabella, served as his bone marrow donor and was found to be a perfect match — a rarity in less than 25% of sibling cases.
“We are beyond happy to finally be home,” the Brooks family said. “It’s been such a long journey, so being back together as a family feels incredible.”
Isaiah is reportedly doing well and enjoying the comfort of his own bed. During his hospital stay, the siblings stayed connected through daily FaceTime calls and by exchanging matching teddy bears with hidden pockets for leaving notes. Now, they no longer have to rely on technology or stuffed animals to communicate.
“His siblings are absolutely overjoyed to have him home,” his family said. “They have been constantly checking on him, asking if he needs anything, and making sure he’s comfortable. It’s been so sweet to watch how much they care for him.”
Before the transplant, Isaiah’s sickle cell disease often interrupted the siblings’ playtime, causing extreme pain, sudden hospitalizations and missed school days. Isabella, who enjoys playing hide-and-seek with her brother, stepped up without hesitation when she learned she could help.
“I wanted to help my brother out because I wanted him to live a long life. Because I love him a lot,” Isabella said previously.
Isaiah acknowledged his sister’s courage, calling her “really brave and really kind.”
With the hospital stay behind them, the family is focusing on spending time together.
“We’ve really just been soaking up this time together, loving on one another and appreciating being under the same roof again,” the family said. “After everything we’ve been through, these moments mean more than words can describe.”
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