Tito supports Ultimate Blood Challenge blood drive
Chandler twins meet ‘Ultimate’ hero When Jordan and Joshua Buchanan stepped into the octagon with their hero, former UFC champion…
Chandler twins meet ‘Ultimate’ hero
When Jordan and Joshua Buchanan stepped into the octagon with their hero, former UFC champion Tito Ortiz, the 12-year-old twins found a brief escape from the constant pain of sickle-cell disease.
The boys never stopped smiling as Ortiz, in Arizona to promote an annual blood drive, treated them to a private wrestling lesson this week at Arizona Combat Sports in Tempe. “Tito taught us three moves that we can use,” Joshua said. “But not when we’re at school because it’s too dangerous.”
The Chandler twins were born with sickle-cell disease, which hinders the flow of red blood cells through the body.
It can lead to anemia, jaundice and other medical problems, including tissue and organ damage, stroke and pain episodes, according to the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America. The boys must see a doctor every month to replenish fluids and check blood levels.
The disease prevents them from playing sports.
For now, the twins are content to cheer on the Ultimate Fighting Championship mixed martial-arts fighters they see on television.
A little over two weeks ago, United Blood Services contacted the boys’ mother, Kristine Buchanan, and told her Ortiz wanted to meet her sons.
“When they (Joshua and Jordan) found out, they were just so excited,” Kristine said. “It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”
When Jordan and Joshua were finally introduced to their hero, they were not disappointed.
“On TV, Tito looks pretty mad, but he’s not like that in person,” Jordan said. “He’s a nice guy.”
Joshua said, “Tito Ortiz is nice, but when it comes to winning a fight . . . ” Jordan finished his brother’s sentence: “He does what he’s got to do.”
