“Because of the generosity of people donating blood, I am here today. I received blood and plasma transfusions that, without both, I would not be here to share my story… In this experience, I came to realize that everyone needs a hero and a miracle… I would not have lived without the generosity of strangers giving blood.That means, you are my miracle.”It’s hard to imagine looking at her today, that Alisha was once hanging onto life — a thin, frail version of her former self. What started as a ruptured appendix, progressed into multiple, complex pelvic abscesses (collections of pus) that caused a host of life threatening complications.Multiple transfusions of red cells and plasma helped her survive three surgeries during a two-month hospitalization. She spent 12 days in the ICU and lost over 20 pounds, fighting infection and severe dehydration.
It took almost two years for Alisha to gain back her strength, and she has made great progress. Happily married to Aaron, her high school sweetheart, she practices yoga, runs her own business and is a dedicated “Dog Mom” to two playful canines. As she returned to good health, Alisha and Aaron followed through on their plans to start their family and she gave birth to twin boys.
“…I personally thank you for giving life, by giving what you can. I donated blood before my illness, and now I can’t; so, from all of us that have received and can no longer give, thank you; and may you and your family be as blessed as I have been.”