The past 4 years have been a journey of hope, strength, and determination 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 courageously fought back against cancer. Since her diagnosis, Wren has received 17 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 7-year-old. December 2018 marked a special milestone for Wren’s treatment. Wren rang the bell at Levine Children’s hospital, signifying the end of treatment and the battle with cancer won. The mission of Wren’s Village (501c3) is to continue to fight back against cancer by raising awareness into action, raise funding for pediatric cancer research, raise blood donations, and help other families like theirs. The family is honored to partner with the American Red Cross in this mission.

September marks Pediatric Cancer Awareness month and the 4-year anniversary of Wren’s diagnosis and 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 September 4, 2020 from 02:00pm – 07:30pm and Saturday September 5, 2020 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 2019, 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 7 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!