For many moms, Mother’s Day is a day to be appreciated and pampered by loved ones. For Elizabeth Valentine-Adler, it’s also a day she gives thanks to the blood donors whose donations helped save her life so she could be a mom to her three young children.
In 2014, Adler experienced childbirth complications with her son, Sam, and lost a significant amount of blood, requiring a blood transfusion.
“I had just had my third baby and had two other little boys at home that needed me to recover, come home, love and take care of them,” she said. “I couldn't believe how incredibly weak and awful I felt before the transfusion when all I wanted was to be cuddling and bonding with my new baby.”
Prior to needing blood, Adler had never thought of those on the receiving end of blood donations. Halfway through her transfusion she felt like a brand-new person. “I told myself at some point down the road I would give blood as a way of giving back,” she said.
Now, seven years after her transfusion, she is donating blood for others and is encouraging people to think of those like her who count on donations, including women who experience birth complications. In fact, hemorrhaging is the leading cause of pregnancy-related complications that can occur anytime during pregnancy. In instances of severe bleeding, blood transfusions often play a lifesaving role.
Adler knows that without generous blood donors, her children wouldn’t have a mother today. Now, each Mother’s Day, as her family shows their appreciation, she shows her appreciation for blood donors.
“I am so thankful for the generosity of blood donors who allowed me to get better,” she said. “Your commitment and willingness to take the time is lifesaving.”
Blood is unlike other medical treatments since it cannot be stockpiled or manufactured in a lab. The only source of blood is generous donors. Right now, all blood types and donation types are needed to ensure a stable blood supply to help all kinds of patients every day across the country.
The Red Cross urges eligible individuals who are feeling well to please make an appointment today to give by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 800-RED-CROSS.
With more and more individuals receiving a COVID-19 vaccine, the Red Cross wants people to know that, in most cases, there is no blood donation deferral time after receiving a COVID-19 vaccine. However, knowing the name of the vaccine manufacturer is important in determining blood donation eligibility. View a video on blood donation and COVID-19 vaccines.
Blood and platelet donors of all types are needed this month to help ensure blood products are available for patients now and into summer. In thanks for making it a summer full of life, those who come to give May 1-15 will receive a $5 Amazon.com Gift Card by email. Those who make it in to donate in May will also automatically be entered for a chance to win a travel trailer camper that sleeps five, powered by Suburban Propane.* Additional details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/SummerFullOfLife.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
Find a drive and schedule a blood donation appointment today.
