January is National Blood Donor Month

January, 2012


Dear Friends,

January is designated as National Blood Donor Month. I never knew that until just this year. My life experience has recently heightened my awareness of the great contribution blood donors make to the common good. January is chosen as donor’s month because traditionally blood banks are at the lowest in the winter months.

As most of you know, I was recently diagnosed with Myelodysplastic Syndrome, also known as MDS (or as My Disease Stinks as my oncologist says). It is a relatively uncommon form of cancer of the blood. At this time, it is not curable and extensive research is underway to find adequate and affordable ways to manage it. I have volunteered to be a subject in the research project.

I want to thank all of you whose prayers are giving me hope and strength, and all who have extended well wishes and words of encouragement. In your great generosity, you often ask, “What can I do to help?”

Until now, I did not know how to answer that question because I was traveling in the world of the unknown myself. But I do now know what would be of help to me and others who suffer with this disease. To be part of the research project one must be transfusion-dependent. I am that now. I am drawing on the blood bank at Columbia-Presbyterian Hospital. You could help, if you are able, by donating a pint of blood or encouraging someone who is able to do so. It can be at any bloodmobile or local hospital that accepts blood donors. I have deep gratitude for all those whose donated blood is giving me a quality of life. I pray in gratitude for them with each pint I receive, and I can not help but reflect on how bound we are to one another spiritually, emotionally, intellectually, and now so physically.

My sincere thanks for your prayers and support. Know that I hold you in my prayers daily and in my heart with deep affection.

Love,

Sr. Tecie Lardner

P.S. If you are able to donate, could you please let me know when you do so at tecieop@aol.com.