A couple of years ago, I had an episode of hemorrhaging that, at first, did not alarm either me or my parents. However, when the bleeding didn't stop, I quickly got so weak I couldn't stand up. We went to Baptist St. Anthony’s hospital, where we found I had a dangerously low hemoglobin (red cell) count. I was seriously ill, and was admitted to the hospital.

While my doctor was running tests to identify the cause of the bleeding, I received six units of blood to replace what I had lost. The transfusions kept me going until my doctor diagnosed and corrected the problem. After three days spent waiting for rather exotic test results, we learned that I had an endocrine imbalance that responded well to replacement therapy.

Being in the hospital was no fun, but the great staff kept us advised and helped explain what was happening. I also enjoyed the visits and support of all my friends and family. Today, I'm a "normal" and healthy teenager. Yet, I remember lying in that hospital bed, with no energy, wondering...

What does Coffee Memorial Blood Center, and the donors who gave their blood, mean to me? I'm here now! Thank you!