Jasmina Anema, the 6-year-old Soho girl whose family tried desperately to find a bone marrow donor match, died Jan. 26 battling leukemia.
Jasmina’s search for a donor made national news and was also the subject of a Downtown Express article last February. She met President Obama through the Make a Wish Foundation and the president issued a condolence statement on behalf of himself and the first lady.
“Jasmina showed tremendous bravery in the face of adversity, and her ability to stay positive throughout her battle was an inspiration to me and to all those she touched,” Obama said. “As the parents of two young girls, our hearts particularly go out to Jasmina’s devoted mother Thea. Our thoughts and prayers are with her and with all who knew and loved Jasmina.”
Pop star Rihanna also joined in the effort to find a donor for Jasmina.
Because Jasmina was black, her search for a match was particularly difficult since there are relatively few donors of African ancestry. Her Web site, oneforjasmina.com, encourages people to do a simple cheek swab to join the bone marrow registry. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations either to the RABO Bank or the Web site.
Jasmina attended Red Apple Preschool in Chinatown where she learned Mandarin before enrolling at P.S. 41 in the Village.
“Jasmina had a wonderful life and we thank each and every person who showed kindness and love over the years,” read a statement on her site. “Your endless support through this entire process has been invaluable.”
