I have a birthday coming up and I would love to celebrate by doing something meaningful.

My mother was hospitalized in the fall of 2016 for over two weeks. For weeks we couldn’t figure out what was wrong and then she was finally diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). This requires her to need blood transfusions regularly.

Although I’m doing this campaign for my mom, there are many others who also need blood transfusions regularly. In addition to that need, there are numerous natural disasters and everyday tragedies that require the need for blood on a constant basis.

For my birthday through the end of 2017, I’m asking if you can pledge to donate blood at least once before the end of the year. I’m asking for my friends and family to make an appointment and give blood to the American Red Cross through a Virtual Blood Drive. It’s easy to find an appointment that’s near you and every donation can help save up to three lives. The impact we can make together is the best gift I can imagine. So SleevesUp and help me reach my goal.

I understand that there are also many reasons why one may not be able to donate. If you can’t, please consider donating to the American Red Cross.

Thank you all for your willingness to help so many!

Jacquelyn Branscomb