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Finding Cures. Saving Children.
Perspective: It’s in you to give
“Lots of people ask me why I make the drive from Missouri to Tennessee every other week to donate platelets. It’s simple. Knowing that I’m helping a child is the greatest pleasure I can get.” -- Steven Carter
Many years ago, a boy from my hometown in Missouri went to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital for treatment. As a result of his experiences, I learned about the great research and clinical care that occurs at the hospital. After he passed away, I wanted to find a way to give back to St. Jude. I began donating money and, since I had just moved to Memphis, I also began donating platelets at the hospital’s Blood Donor Center.
Even though I later relocated to Mississippi and then to Missouri, I knew I needed to continue helping the children. So, for the past seven years, I have returned to Memphis every two weeks to donate platelets.
Lots of people ask me why I make that drive from Missouri to Tennessee so often. It’s simple. Knowing that I’m helping a child is the greatest pleasure I can get.
Ever since I began donating, I’ve been encouraging my friends and relatives to tour St. Jude and donate platelets. Some have taken me up on the offer; some haven’t, but I spread the word as much as I can.
The donation process is actually enjoyable. I walk in with a big, old smile, and everybody in the Blood Donor Center greets me. Then I go through the interview process. They check my iron and take my temperature. Then I climb into an easy chair, put on my headphones and watch TV while I donate.
It’s not hard. You could sit at home for an hour or so watching a movie on TV. Why not spend that time at St. Jude donating platelets—knowing that you’re helping a child in need?
The drive home is always great. I go home with a smile, knowing that I’ve helped somebody. I never have a bad day when I come to St. Jude.
Since I’ve spent so many hours in the St. Jude Blood Donor Center, I’ve had the chance to meet a few of the children who come in there to receive platelets. Those kids are far stronger than I am. They always have a smile on their faces.
No matter where I am in the country, I’ll continue to come back every other week. My message to you is this: Please help! The children of St. Jude need as much help as they can get.
--Steven Carter
| Every day St. Jude performs about 15 to 25 platelet transfusions for children undergoing treatment at the hospital. If the St. Jude Blood Donor Center does not have enough donated platelets, it must purchase them at a cost of $500 to $700 per unit. By donating platelets at St. Jude, you can help a child while helping the hospital save money. If you plan to be in the Memphis area, why not consider making an appointment to donate? Simply call (901) 595-2024 or dial toll-free 1-866-2STJUDE (278-5833), ext. 2024. |
Reprinted from Promise Summer 2009
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