Time for a Top-Up

Our last doctor's appointment on Feb 21 showed that Joshua's hemoglobin was down low enough that we thought a transfusion would do him some good. The normal range for hemoglobin is 14-18. Joshua usually runs slightly anemic at around 10, but this time around he was down to an 8. It's hard to tell how much of a difference it makes in his overall energy because he tends to be pretty tired anyway. However, he does find it that much more difficult to get up the hills that surround our apartment. We went ahead with our planned trip to Placerville that weekend, but made arrangements to have a transfusion of 2 units of blood done when we returned. The process is simple enough, although it takes the better part of a day.

With this in mind, there is one small way for some of you to do something. If you're able, please consider making a donation, or better yet, get in the habit of giving regularly. You're able to donate every 8 weeks and it only takes about an hour. Blood transfusions are commonly used for a number of purposes, but blood banks throughout the country often have chronic shortages. There are a number of needs for the blood. For example, this was the third transfusion Joshua has had (he had two last spring). My mom received a number of transfusions six years ago when her levels plummeted as a result of chemotherapy. We know the sweetest little one-year old who has a rare form of serious anemia that requires him to get monthly transfusions.

Joshua always made a point of donating blood and got me in the habit as well, but because of his cancer, he is no longer able. He has literally given around the world - no surprise there. He used to donate when he lived in England and he donated in Cambodia once just for the experience. We were in Istanbul in 1999 right after they had a major earthquake. Feeling helpless, we asked around and found a hospital where we could give blood. He always said the best part was the free cookies and juice handed out afterwards. Even better, in England, pints of Guiness were handed out.

So, if you're out of cookies at home and you need a sweet fix, call your local blood bank and make an appointment. We would both be grateful, as would any of the anonymous recipients.