Over the next 18 months, the Mississauga girl, through her determination and desire to enjoy life, became an inspiration to all who knew her.

Just six years old when she died, Aashna and her memory continue to give her family the courage to help others. That's what she wanted.

A Canadian Blood Services' donor and OneMatch DNA swabbing/registration clinic that took place recently was inspired by Aashna, who wanted to become a doctor when she grew up.

"Aashna was your typical six-year-old, a mini-teenager who loved Bratz dolls.... She told us she was going to be a doctor, like her aunt and cousins, when she grew up - but only during the day. At night, she wanted to be Hannah Montana," said Anju Dhingra, her mother.

"Aashna would be very proud of what we are doing to save lives. She understood that donating blood was important."

Blood components and stem cells are needed by many cancer patients, and 70 per cent of patients who need a stem cell transplant count on the generosity of an unrelated donor from the OneMatch Stem Cell and Marrow Network.

For details call 1-888-236-6283 or visit www.blood.ca

- Metroland News Service