Team member stories: Before Priscilla Ketter was a Prisma Health team member, her daughter Precious was a patient

Priscilla Ketter, Research Coordinator at Bi-Lo Charities Children’s Cancer Center, works on research studies on sickle cell disease. Not only is she an integral part of for sickle cell team on the administrative side, she has the opportunity to meet with patients living with sickle cell disease.

“I continue to advocate for sickle cell because of my daughter, and because I know there are others who need a voice,” said Priscilla.

Her daughter, Precious Gamble, was born in 1998 and diagnosed with sickle cell disease at 3 months old. She came to the Bi-Lo Charities Children’s Cancer Center, which operates as a part of Prisma Health Children’s Hospital–Upstate.

“Everyone here cared for her just like she was their own,” said Priscilla. “By the time she was four years old, she had already experienced two seizures and a stroke. She received monthly blood transfusions. In the end, when those stopped working, a stem cell transplant was recommended.”

While the transplant did successfully cure Precious of sickle cell disease, she unfortunately passed away from complications of graft vs. host disease on February 21st, 2004.

“After her passing, I sponsored the Precious Gamble’s Birthday Blood Drive through the Blood Connection,” said Priscilla. “I also worked at the Blood Connection blood donors for sickle cell patients. I did that for many years.”

She is an active member of the American Society of Hematology CAG, a community advisory group, and continues to work as an advocate for those living with sickle cell disease.

Priscilla views herself as a mother first.

“On February 20th, 2023, I started my work with Bi-Lo Charities Cancer Center,” said Priscilla. “For me to work here, at the place where she was receiving care the day before her ‘Heaven Anniversary’, it meant a lot. I’m where destiny has led me. I’m enjoying my life, I enjoy the people I work with and I enjoy my mission.”

For Priscilla Ketter, her job isn’t just a way to spend her days, but her ministry.

“This is where I’m supposed to be,” Priscilla said. Then she added, “I think I’m here for good.”