Many of us have had friends, family, or even ourselves go through unexpected tough times. Worry, loneliness or despair can be daily realities when tragedy befalls us. However, at GVEC, when the going gets tough, the tough get going. When one of our GVEC family members needs a boost, the people respond with unexpected care, generosity, understanding and support. Our people show up and give the best we know how.
In July, GVEC hosted a blood drive through the South Texas Blood & Tissue in honor of two young GVEC family members—Gunnar (age 11) and Peyton (age 1). Due to their serious medical conditions, both of these children have a long road of treatment and recovery ahead of them.
Seeing the need, GVEC employees donated to the blood drive event to encourage their coworkers, who are parents first, with the gift of hope! Blood and platelet donations make a difference in the lives of cancer and transplant patients, trauma victims, new moms and babies, and other patients in hospitals and clinics in our community. The need for blood becomes especially critical after disasters such as hurricanes. It’s also needed around this time of year with the increase in accidents that come with the holiday season.
GVEC is hosting another blood drive event in November 2024. The typical whole blood donation takes up to 45 minutes, from start to finish (including the paperwork), and can save 3 lives. Several GVEC employees donated for the very first time!
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Peyton’s Story
What started as a quick trip to an urgent care for AJ and Alison Lara for their daughter Peyton turned into a life-changing event when Peyton was diagnosed with infant acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) at the age of 7 months old.
ALL is a type of rapidly progressive cancer of the blood and bone marrow and is rare in infants. According to St. Jude®, the U.S. sees about 90 cases of ALL in children younger than age 1 each year.
Since the diagnosis in February 2024, the family has been enduring the journey of hospital stays, treatment, and blood and platelet transfusions. Peyton is incredibly bright, strong and funny. Her dad says, “she’s a big goofball and loves being outside any chance she can get.”
GVEC and South Texas Blood & Tissue held a blood drive in her honor in July 2024. The Lara’s express a heartfelt thank you by saying, “The love and support we’ve received from our GVEC family has been amazing and we are forever grateful.”
Gunnar’s Story
Amy Bierschwale’s son Gunnar was diagnosed with severe aplastic anemia (SAA) in April 2022. SAA is a rare and serious autoimmune disorder that prevents the bone marrow from producing enough blood cells.
Gunnar has braved his way through surgeries, chemo and a bone marrow transplant. He enjoys playing video games, spending time with his family and sure does love his dog Molly May. Molly gives him much enjoyment and love since he’s been out of the hospital. Gunnar lives a full but altered life with the rare blood disease and continues to have clinic visits throughout the month. This allows each team of doctors that are watching over his care to monitor his blood counts and on-going conditions.
Gunnar is excelling in physical therapy weekly, along with attending in-school classes when he is feeling well. He has made a special bond with his homeschool teacher, Ms. Denise, who brings a special light to Gunnar’s smile but most importantly has been an amazing support for his ongoing education!
GVEC and South Texas Blood & Tissue held a blood drive in his honor in September 2022 and again in July 2024.
“In this lifetime, a thank you, simply will never be enough for everything GVEC has done for my family. I share a special bond in fellowship for each person here. For each donation, prayers and hugs, I’m forever grateful. Please know my family and I are so thankful for everyone’s support and love. Some days, I know I couldn’t do it without you all.” said Bierschwale.
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2024 GVEC-Sponsored Blood Drives To Date:
52 Donations | 156 Lives Impacted
