Laurel Woman Gives Back to Blood Bank After Husband's Battle with Leukemia
Deanna B. of Laurel, Delaware says she will always be grateful for the selfless acts of blood donors at Blood Bank of Delmarva.
"I can not even begin to tell you how many blood products my husband has received through the years," Deanna said.
PICTURED: Deanna with her husband Gerry and son Dale on Christmas Day 2006 at Johns Hopkins Hospital.
Deanna recently lost her husband Gerry to a 5-year battle with leukemia.
Gerry was diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) in 2002. In the beginning of his chemotherapy treatments, he needed red blood cell and platelet transfusions every day. Those transfusions helped him live a longer, healthier life than he would have otherwise.
PICTURED: Gerry, Deanna, and son Dale in 2006 with dogs Junior and Missy.
"My husband is the most courageous person I've ever met," Deanna said. "Even through aggressive chemotherapy and medical treatments, he insisted on using his own illness to help others with leukemia. I will continue to do this now by encouraging all of my friends, family, and co-workers to become frequent blood donors."
Deanna, who works at First State Inspection Agency in Georgetown, has stayed true to her word. She just created her own Blood Bank of Delmarva membership group and has already recruited 6 of her co-workers to become members. Deanna is also recruiting members from the Laurel Fire Department, where Gerry was an active volunteer for 13 years.
PICTURED: Building and sign of the fire station on Gerry and Deanna's farm, dedicated in his honor.
For membership information or to schedule an appointment to donate, call 1 888 8-BLOOD-8 or visit www.delmarvablood.org.
PICTURED: Deanna and Dale beside the tree in their backyard that they planted in Gerry's memory.
