Like many patients with sickle cell disease, Alexandra depends on blood donors to live. She has spent countless hours in hospitals, and missed out on many life events.

“I was always in the hospital,” she said. “I did blood transfusions here and there, but you can’t do too much of it. So I was still always in and out of the hospital.” 

Alexandra was diagnosed with sickle cell at 6 months old, and has received dozens of blood transfusions to combat the crippling pain brought on by the inherited blood disorder.

Now, she relies on blood exchanges to improve her quality of life and keep her out of the hospital. During the procedure, Alexandra’s sickled blood cells are replaced with healthy donor blood.

Blood exchanges have given Alexandra a new lease on life. And it wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of blood donors.

“Sickle cell pain used to be something that I took narcotics to take care of. Nowadays, I take some ibuprofen and I’m ok. That’s how great of a difference it’s made for me. I’m living life. I’m not living in a bed, and I’m not wondering where my life is going. I know where it’s going because I’m pursing goals. And I’m living out my dreams.”

Today, Alexandra is thriving, enjoying being a mom with a bright future ahead of her.

“As long as people continue to donate, my life will continue to be well and flourish,” she said. “And for that, I have to say thank you.”

Blood donors are literally Alexandra’s lifeline, and she’s forever grateful for each of them.

“I appreciate what you do,” she said. “Those of us who rely on it really, really, really are grateful for people like you who step up and donate blood.”