AA&MDSIF College Scholarships

Making Educational Dreams Come True

For young people fighting diseases like aplastic anemia, MDS, or PNH, the cost of medical bills for them and/or their families can make it financially difficult to afford higher education and follow their dreams.  These students must often interrupt their studies due to their health condition and treatments, and may not be able to work additional jobs and save money for college, or participate in extracurricular activities that would make them eligible for various scholarships. The side effects of the diseases, including extreme fatigue, take a toll emotionally and physically.  

In recognition of the enormous effort and courage of those young people fighting bone marrow failure diseases, several families in recent years have made it possible for the Aplastic Anemia and MDS Foundation (AA&MDSIF) to provide college scholarships to undergraduate, graduate, and vocational students. 

The Matthew Debono Memorial Scholarship Fund was established in 1986 by Sally and Manuel Debono whose son, Matthew, died from aplastic anemia and was never able to complete his college degree. To date, more than 50 students affected by bone marrow failure disease have received Debono scholarships to continue their education. Last year, the Debonos began a partnership with AA&MDSIF as administrators of the scholarship program. In 2012, eighteen scholarships were awarded thanks to the Debono family and friends. We have received more than 30 applications for scholarship funds through the Matthew Debono Scholarship Fund for the 2013-2014 school year.  We will soon be announcing the award recipients.

The Debono Scholarship Fund replaces the Harry Carson Scholarship Fund. Thanks to the generosity of NY Giants Hall of Fame football player, Harry Carson and his fans, in 2008-09 and 2011-12 combined, AA&MDSIF provided 26 scholarships through his scholarship fund. Carson’s son, Donald, was diagnosed with severe aplastic anemia in 2005, just five days after graduating from college with a biology degree. Dr. Donald Carson recently graduated from medical school and has now begun his residency.

For many of these students, their academic and career pursuits are a direct reflection of their experiences as a patient. Many choose careers in the health sciences or a profession where they can give back to make life better for someone else.  They are all bright young faces – made all the more exuberant by having a second chance at life.

• Read the Stories of Hope of AA&MDSIF’s 2011 Harry Carson Scholarship recipients.
• Read the Stories of Hope of AA&MDSIF's 2012 Matthew Debono Memorial Scholarship recipients.

Create a Legacy Fund to Honor or Remember Your Loved One

AA&MDSIF depends on the generosity of patients, parents, family members and friends to fund our valuable educational programs and services, as well as special projects such as college scholarships, research grants, and so many more. Learn more about the programs and services that you can help fund on the Major Gifts Opportunity List.

Whether you make the donation yourself, or you and your family decide to raise funds until you reach your goal, creating a named fund can make a major impact on AA&MDSIF research programs, patient education and support services, awareness and advocacy activities. AA&MDSIF staff are available to help you make an impact in this way. If you are interested in this opportunity, please contact Development Director, Sandra Walter by email or at (301) 279-7202, x104.

You Can’t Do It Alone…And Neither Can We! Thank you for your support.