Homestead student battling rare blood disorder writes book to help inspire children in similar situations

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WPTA) - Mahi Khemka was born a healthy, happy baby.

“She was the most beautiful baby, plumpy, pink cheeks,” Manpreet Khemka, her mother, said.

At just four weeks old, Mahi was diagnosed with Hereditary Spherocytosis, a rare genetic blood disorder causing serious health issues.

“They were pricking her and getting the needle through her, you have this little vulnerable child depending on you and you can’t do anything to change that,” Manpreet Khemka said.

From a young age, Mahi underwent numerous blood transfusions and frequent doctor visits to manage her symptoms.

“It’s kinda odd you’re in such a different environment, it’s cold and there’s needles and there’s doctors and there’s nurses,” Mahi Khemka said. “They’re talking big words you’ve never heard of before and it