My grandfather was one of the most selfless people I knew. Before being diagnosed with MDS, he made it a priority in his life to help others. He was the chairman for a community church fundraiser for over 40 years, drove patients to a veterans hospital, and donated over a gallon of blood.  He proudly served our country in the US Army when he was young.  Growing up, you could find us out in the fields of his farm, riding the tractor and taking care of the cows.

Due to MDS, my grandfather received frequent blood transfusions. The blood transfusions replenished his red blood cells, which was needed to carry oxygen in his body. The blood supply in the U.S. is now at its lowest level in over decade.  There’s no substitute for blood, which makes blood donations vital. Roughly 10,000 people, just like my grandfather, are diagnosed with MDS each year. 

I’m asking for your help with Blood 4 MDS by donating on May 26th at John Edwards Hair Design in Vienna, VA. Your blood donation can save up to three lives.  You can register at this Inova blood drive page.

Thank you for considering to help.  I hope to see you there! 

- Elsie