As we ring in a New Year, we wrap up 2023 and embrace a fresh start for 2024. But there is something else to celebrate in January. It is National Blood Donor Month. It has been honored since January of 1970 and gives life to those who need it. I know because I am one.
To the Blood Donors Who Saved My Life: Thank You
I’ve never been able to formally thank you, as I just don’t know who you are by name. There are many of you! But I know you by heart.
You are the unsung heroes who helped me when I was diagnosed with blood cancer at 21 weeks pregnant. You see, during my pregnancy, the only way to treat the cancer head-on until I gave birth to my daughter was through several blood transfusions. As my pregnancy progressed, my body needed those transfusions, and it was your donation that helped save our lives.
I remember sitting in the transfusion chair and being filled with gratitude. Looking around the room at each individual on their own journey fighting for health, it was your donation that made a difference to mine. The medical professionals would hang the bag I needed (sometimes more than one) and I know you were the one who selflessly gave whenever you did.
Know that it makes a difference. It made a difference to mine and my little girl’s life.
I remember my doctors telling me that the only way to fight the blood cancer while pregnant was through those often weekly blood transfusions. But it was not always easy. There were shortages, and because my blood had several antibodies that I had already formed since birth and throughout my childhood, it was a bumpy road from the start. I would need blood constantly because not only was my body fighting cancer, but I was also pregnant, and both of us used those transfusions. My body would give what it could to my daughter, meanwhile soaking up what was remaining to fight the cancer.
There were times when they didn’t have a bag of blood ready due to shortages. My husband and I would jump as soon as we got the call from my care team to head to the hospital or transfusion center as Red Cross flew them in. This could happen anytime during the week and at the drop of a hat. The transfusions became a weekly endeavor and sometimes twice a week, even on the weekends. It was what kept us from feeling depleted.
I am so incredibly thankful for all who could help. I received blood transfusions all the way up to admittance for my stem cell transplant and at the birth of my daughter. Every donation makes a difference in the life of someone.
Again, from a survivor’s heart, thank you to all blood donors as we celebrate National Blood Donor Month!
Ways to Donate Blood
If you would like to and are able to donate blood, you can check out ways to give below:
- Give through the American Red Cross. Find the place nearest to you by entering your zip code on their front page to make an appointment, or download the app.
- Give through The Blood Connection in the Charleston area.
- Find local businesses that offer a blood drive at their business locally. Here are a few local events coming up:
