The past 2 years have been a journey of strength and hope for the Jansen family. On August 6, 2016, their sweet daughter, Wren, was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) at age 3. With the loving support of family, friends, and their close-knit Baxter Village Community, Wren and her family have been courageously fighting back against cancer. Since her diagnosis, Wren has received 16 blood and platelet transfusions, which she calls “Unicorn Juice”, thanks to a crafty nurse who used the term to calm Wren’s fears. This lifesaving “magic” gift from generous donors has helped to restore her strength and spirit so that she can be a normal 5-year-old. This year marks a special milestone for Wren’s treatment. In December, the family hopes to be able to ring the bell at Levine Children’s hospital, signifying the end of treatment and the battle with cancer won.

September marks Pediatric Cancer Awareness month and the 2-year anniversary of Wren’s diagnosis and continued fight against pediatric cancer. In honor of Wren, and all of the children in our community who have been touched by cancer, Wren’s Village will be hosting a nationwide campaign and 2 local Hope For Wren #AllinForWren blood drives at the Baxter YMCA on Friday August 31, 2018 from 11:00am – 5:00pm and Saturday September 1, 2018 from 9:00am – 3:00pm.

Did you know that every 2 seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood? And that one donation can save up to 3 lives? The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2018, more than 1.7 million people will be diagnosed in the U.S., many of them will need blood, sometimes weekly, during their chemotherapy treatment. Donating blood is a simple process, but it can make a tremendous difference in the lives of others. Right now a critical blood shortage exists. We need your help!

Without the generosity of blood donors, Wren would not be the smiling, energetic, happy 5 year-old that she is today. Help us reach our goal of 200 units to ensure that all patients receive the blood they need so desperately, just like Wren did. Wren’s Village says: Let’s roll up our sleeves, restock the hospital shelves, and make a profound impact on the lives of others! Please pledge your support today by making and showing up for an appointment to give life-saving, magic unicorn juice!