When Marjory Ingerson of Pepperell, Massachusetts says she never lets herself get depressed, she really means it!

Her positive attitude, plus excellent medical care and the help of many volunteer blood donors, has kept this 82-year-old grandmother going strong in spite of a series of significant medical conditions.

“My doctor says I’m a candidate for the medical books!” Marjory chuckles. Marjory has had surgery for cervical cancer in 1972, a double mastectomy in 1989 and a triple heart bypass in 2000.

Marjory’s reliance on blood transfusions, however, began with a routine knee replacement. Pre-operative blood work revealed some disturbing test results. Marjory’s red blood cell count was very low. Her white cell count was extremely high. She was sent to a hematologist for further testing, including a bone marrow biopsy. The diagnosis was Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia. Chronic lymphocytic leukemia is a cancer of the white blood cells (lymphocytes) characterized by a slow, progressive increase of these cells in the blood and the bone marrow.

Marjory began chemotherapy treatments, however, the side effects were devastating. The only other option was to receive blood transfusions. Since that time, one month has been the longest she has gone without getting this lifesaving medicine. Marjory says she can tell when she needs a transfusion as she tends to get a bit “cranky” and feels so much better afterward. “I go to the oncology department at Nashoba Valley to get my red blood cells and it gives me more pep."

Marjory is very grateful to all the volunteer donors who are providing her with the blood she needs on a continual basis. “I’d like to thank them very much for taking their time to help not specifically me, but anyone. I just wish I could do it myself.” Marjory has heard the news reports about the ongoing blood shortages around the country and it concerns her. “Someday they may not have the blood type you need. I hope that never happens.”

While she finds it difficult to get around these days, Marjory says she likes to talk with people and help cheer them up. Thanks to the blood she gets, she has the strength to provide this type of encouragement. Giving blood is a wonderful way to “pay it forward.”

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

Patient Stories