Cancer Patient Advocates for Blood Donations During Awareness Month

A Jefferson Hills woman, known simply as Rose, is urging community members to consider blood donation during National Blood Donor Month. Since her diagnosis of multiple myeloma in August 2024, she has relied heavily on blood donations to support her treatment.

Rose, who worked as a paraprofessional at Borland Manor Elementary School in North Strabane Township, experienced severe pain after a student jumped on her back. This incident prompted a visit to the emergency room, where she received the shocking diagnosis of multiple myeloma, a cancer affecting the bone marrow. Since then, Rose has undergone extensive treatment, including chemotherapy and a stem cell transplant, requiring over 40 blood and platelet transfusions.

“I was needing transfusions every week,” Rose stated, emphasizing the critical role that blood donations have played in her recovery.

In her efforts to promote awareness, Rose has partnered with Vitalant, an organization dedicated to blood donation and transfusion services. Although she had previously donated blood, the full impact of those donations did not resonate with 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 reflected.

January is designated as National Blood Donor Month, a time when blood donation organizations encourage donations to replenish supply. Those who donate blood, platelets, or plasma between January 5 and February 8 will be eligible to win one of 26 $500 gift cards for Vitalant’s donor rewards store.

Maya Santana, communications manager for Vitalant, commended Rose for her willingness to share her personal story. “Stories like Rose’s help personify the act of blood donations,” Santana noted, highlighting the importance of real-life experiences in motivating others to donate.

For individuals considering becoming blood donors but feeling uncertain, Rose encourages them not to hesitate. “Don’t be afraid,” she advises, stating that the entire donation process takes about seven minutes. “You are saving a life, which is such a blessing,” she added, reinforcing the positive impact of each donation.

Anyone interested in donating blood can sign up for a drive by visiting donors.vitalant.org. This National Blood Donor Month, Rose’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the life-saving potential of blood donations, encouraging others to contribute to this vital cause.