Cancer Patient Advocates for Blood Donations During Awareness Month

A Jefferson Hills woman, known simply as Rose, is urging the community to donate blood during National Blood Donor Month, which runs from January 5 to February 8, 2024. Rose’s personal experience as a cancer patient has highlighted the critical need for blood donations in life-threatening situations. Diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a type of bone marrow cancer, she has undergone extensive treatment, including chemotherapy and a stem cell transplant, requiring over 40 blood and platelet transfusions.

Rose, who worked as a paraprofessional with children with special needs at Borland Manor Elementary School in North Strabane Township, experienced severe pain after a student unexpectedly jumped on her back in August 2024. This incident prompted her to seek medical attention, leading to her diagnosis. Reflecting on her journey, Rose stated, “I was needing transfusions every week.”

To raise awareness, she has partnered with Vitalant, a nonprofit organization that provides blood and transfusion services. Previously a blood donor herself, Rose had never considered how her donations could directly impact individuals like her until she found herself in need. “You think of the obvious. Surgeries that didn’t go well, emergency situations. Never did I think about cancer patients,” she remarked.

During National Blood Donor Month, individuals who donate blood or platelets will have the chance to win one of 26 $500 gift cards for Vitalant’s donor rewards store. Maya Santana, the communications manager for Vitalant, commended Rose for sharing her experience, stating, “Stories like Rose help personify the act of blood donations.”

For those hesitant about donating, Rose encourages them not to be afraid. She emphasizes that the donation process takes about seven minutes and can make a significant difference in someone’s life. “You are saving a life, which is such a blessing,” she said.

Anyone interested in contributing to this vital cause can sign up for a blood drive by visiting donors.vitalant.org. As National Blood Donor Month unfolds, Rose’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the vital role blood donations play in saving lives.