Schoessow siblings host 4th annual blood drive
Central Wisconsin continues to face a severe blood shortage, and two Granton teens remain dedicated to combating this life-threatening crisis. Caleb and Abby Schoessow are hosting their fourth annual Birthday Blood Drive on March 21, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at Granton High School, because, as they put it, “There is no better birthday gift than saving a life.”
The twins aim to collect 80 units of blood, potentially impacting over 240 lives. They are partnering with the Versiti Blood Center of Wisconsin, the exclusive blood supplier to the Marshfield Medical Center and more than 50 hospitals across the state. To encourage donations, they want the community to know some important blood donation facts:
• If you were previously ineligible to donate due to a medical condition or prescription drug usage, you may now be eligible.
• Anyone 16 years or older, weighing at least 110 pounds, and in good health can donate.
• All blood types are needed, especially O positive, O negative, and double unit donations to help address this national blood shortage.
• As a special thank you, Caleb and Abby will be giving presents to the oldest and youngest blood donors.
“Our family has always believed in giving back. Over the past two years, we’ve collected over 190 units of blood, impacting 570 lives. This year, since we’re in college and can’t be home for our birthday, we decided to host our fourth annual blood drive during our spring break,” said Caleb. The personal impact of blood shortages Now college freshmen at UW-Stevens Point and St. Norbert College, Caleb and Abby’s commitment to this cause is deeply personal.
Several years ago, their mother was diagnosed with breast cancer, enduring years of treatment and requiring a lifesaving blood transfusion. In addition, Abby was born with a rare disease, requiring multiple surgeries as a toddler.
“My parents tell me how extensive my surgeries were. I think about kids and adults who need blood every day, and I want to do my part to help save their lives,” said Abby, who aspires to be a physician.
“There is no greater gift than the gift of life,” she added. “Donating blood is one of the most selfless, humanitarian acts a person can do.
“I’d love to see more teachers and students come to donate, and if you’ve been wanting to donate, but have had too many reservations, I hope that your courage can be greater than your fear.”
What to bring to your blood donation A blood donor card or driver’s license is required at check-in. If you are Amish and do not have a photo ID, please bring two documents that verify your name and address.
Register for a time to donate Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are encouraged. To register for Caleb and Abby’s Birthday Blood Drive, call 877-232-4376 or visit the Versiti website. If you can’t find a time that works for you, reach out to Courtney Schoessow at 715-937-0856.
Come celebrate Caleb and Abby’s birthday by giving the ultimate gift — the gift of life.
CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
