Florence, 53 years old, started receiving blood in November 2002 following complications from chemotherapy administered as treatment for lung cancer.

Florence admits she was nervous at first about getting blood transfusions because she was worried about the possibility of contracting HIV. After overcoming her initial fears, she was extremely grateful for the transfusions of red blood cells and platelets. She says sometimes her blood count was so low, the doctors wondered how she was able to walk into the clinic. Blood transfusions gave her immediate relief and energy.

Florence notes that she was dependent on the kindness of strangers who gave her the Gift of Life. She prays that people will continue to give blood whenever they can and hopes that they realize they truly are giving life.

Florence has a great attitude. She’s very positive and that’s probably one of the reasons she done so well with her chemo and radiation. She loves fixing cars and, thanks to volunteer blood donors, goes to see stock car racing every weekend.

Red Cross blood donors help patients just like Florence in cities and towns throughout New England and across the United States. Please….give blood. Together, we can save a life.

Patient Stories