24-Year-Old Maryland Woman Needed Blood to Survive
PICTURED: Jennie, on the right, with her friend Laurie
When she was born 24 years ago, Jennie Rodriguez of Ocean City, Maryland had serious health problems, including a serious form of bronchitis. During a tracheotomy, a surgical procedure to open up her windpipe, Jennie lost a lot of blood and her heart stopped three times.
However, because of emergency blood transfusions and good medical care, she was able to fully recover.
"Those first few years were hospitals, doctors and lots of negative expectations. Needless to say, I've proved them wrong and it's my mission to do for others what was done for me as a sick, little baby 24 years ago," said Jennie. "I donate blood because donors saved my life, and I encourage people of all ages to give blood too. You never know who will be in need!"
