Bronx Family Clings To Hope Amidst Newborn Daughter's Search For Lifesaving Bone Marrow Donor

Financial Contribution and Support from Coty-DKMS Partnership Provides Relief to Lopez Family

At seven months old, Sophia Lopez finds herself in an unimaginable battle against a fatal disease. Diagnosed with hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), the Lopez family is in desperate search of a bone marrow donor to save Sophia's life. With the help of DKMS, the goodwill of Coty Inc., and the support of hundreds of individuals at local donor drives, the Lopez family continues to cling to hope.

"Baby Sophia depends on a stranger to save her life," said Katharina Harf, Executive Vice President, DKMS Americas. "We hope that through hearing her story, people will register as bone marrow donors to save Sophia and countless other patients who need a transplant to live."

As Sophia continues to face ongoing chemotherapy treatments, the family continues to face hardships. Recently, Sophia's father had to cut back on hours at work to help Denise with their sons, ages 2 and 11. Meanwhile, health expenses continue to pile up from numerous hospital bills, expensive prescription costs, and more.

The Lopez family's financial woes were eased thanks to Coty Inc., a leading global beauty company and founding corporate sponsor of DKMS. Coty Chief Executive Officer Bernd Beetz presented the family with a monetary donation of $10,000 on June 9 to help off-set financial costs.

"Sophia and her family are fighting this difficult battle with strength and determination, inspiring us all," said Bernd Beetz, Coty Chief Executive Officer. "Coty is honored to extend this donation to help ease the family's financial worries and give the Lopez parents the time and support to focus on their family and Sophia's recovery."

"It's the kindness of the community and our endless hope to find a donor that keeps our family going through these hard times," says Mike Lopez. "Coty's donation is just one example of the outpouring of support we have received to help heal Sophia and our family."

Join Sophia's Facebook group!