Hope, Resilience, and a Lifesaving Mission:
Join Team Autumn!
Autumn Carlson is a bright, spirited 9-year-old who inspires everyone around her with her courage and resilience.
Diagnosed with Fanconi anemia, a rare and incurable genetic condition, Autumn’s journey has been filled with challenges, hope, and determination.
Autumn joined with Team Ava and friends: Ben Carbone and She Closes Deals Realty, are rallying together to support groundbreaking research through the Fanconi Cancer Foundation—because every child deserves a fighting chance.
Life with a rare disease:
Autumn's Journey
In June 2023, Autumn’s life took an unexpected turn when a sick visit to her pediatrician revealed dangerously low blood and platelet levels. What began as concern over unusual bruising quickly escalated to a whirlwind of ER visits, bone marrow biopsies, and words no parent ever wants to hear: pancytopenia, leukemia, and bone marrow failure. Thankfully, further testing ruled out leukemia, but the news wasn’t any easier—Autumn was diagnosed with Fanconi anemia (FA), a rare and incurable genetic disorder.
The months that followed were grueling. Autumn underwent high-dose chemotherapy, endured devastating side effects, and received a lifesaving bone marrow transplant from a 25-year-old donor. Her strength carried her through weeks in the hospital and over a year of isolation, countless transfusions, and follow-up treatments. Today, Autumn is back in school, horseback riding, and playing with friends—happy and thriving.
But this is not the end of her fight. FA puts Autumn at a significantly higher risk of developing aggressive cancers at a young age, with limited treatment options available. Her family remains vigilant, knowing that early detection is her best chance for survival. Despite the challenges, Autumn continues to inspire with her resilience and joy.
A Beacon of Support:
The Fanconi Cancer Foundation
Our mission is to improve the lives of people affected by Fanconi anemia and associated cancers worldwide by funding exceptional research and empowering our community. When you give to FCF, you are:
Supporting FA Families
Fighting for a Cure that Reaches Beyond FA
Driving Collaboration in Gene Therapy
Fueling Clinical Trials That Change
Hear it from Autumn: She's living proof of progress!
Due to FCF donor funded research, cell transplant success rates have risen from under 30% to nearly 100%. Successes like this allow people like Autumn to live longer, healthier lives, all due to the dedication and generosity of our community of supporters!
Our Incredible Sponsors:
Your generosity drives FA research!
Thank you for giving hope to Autumn and families facing Fanconi anemia worldwide.
Help us make an even bigger impact by sharing this page!