OUR STORY:

Monte was diagnosed with Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma (SLL) in early December. A significant part of the process so far has been treating his Pure Red Blood Cell Aplasia (PRCA), a type of anemia. This has required bi-weekly blood transfusions of irradiated blood to attempt to stabilize his hemoglobin, alleviate his fatigue and lethargy to maintain a somewhat normal lifestyle, and to improve his skin color.

The American Red Cross is experiencing the worst blood shortage in over a decade. They provide 40% of the nation’s blood supply, and have had to limit blood product distributions to hospitals as a result of the shortage. There have been multiple times when Monte was supposed to receive more blood than the Cleveland Clinic blood bank would allow due to the incredible shortage. There have even been times where the Cleveland Clinic had to source the blood directly from the American Red Cross because their blood bank didn’t have what he needed. We have been fortunate that he hasn’t been turned away completely or had any procedures delayed due to the current blood supply shortage – it’s the one time having cancer has its perks 😀 …some others haven’t been so lucky.

We are incredibly grateful for our support system, and everyone keeps asking what they can do to help while we’re in this unexpected season of life. The meals, check-ins, and care packages have been instrumental to keeping us going and laughing, but knowing the impact these bags of blood have on our everyday lives, we are asking for your help in a bigger way.

THE ASK:

We started a SleevesUp campaign through the American Red Cross and are asking you to please donate blood or platelets if you’re able. While Monte cannot receive the blood directly, you can donate on behalf of his campaign to help others in similar situations.
– It’s easy to find an appointment that’s near you and every donation can help save up to three lives, or in our case, keep them somewhat normal!
– The blood donation process from the time you arrive until the time you leave takes about an hour. The donation itself is only about 8-10 minutes on average.
– When donating, be sure to schedule using the “Pledge to Give Blood” button above so we easily track the impact. If you are asked for a sponsor code while donating it’s MobilizeWithMonte.
– Finally, if you’re social, post a photo while donating using the #MobilizeWithMonte, we would love to send you a virtual high-five!

Every day, blood donors help patients of all ages: accident and burn victims, heart surgery and organ transplant patients, and those battling cancer. In fact, every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood, so THANK YOU for your consideration and continued support on this journey, we couldn’t do it without you!

Sending Love,
Britt & Monte