Blood donation is a selfless act, but it’s also deeply personal. For some, it’s a way to give back to the community. For others, like Heather Keiler-Green, it’s a mission rooted in love and loss.
Heather, a lifelong blood donor, shares her story about how her journey with blood donation became vital after her son Phoenix was diagnosed with stage four high-risk neuroblastoma at just 17 months old.
“He had a constant need for blood and platelet donations,” Heather explained. “We truly, truly know that we wouldn’t have had him for that amount of time if it wasn’t for blood donors.”
Phoenix’s courageous battle with cancer lasted 19 months. Heather credits the blood and platelet transfusions he received during that time with giving her family precious extra moments together. Though Phoenix passed away just before his third birthday, his memory inspires her continued commitment to blood donation.
“Every time I’m eligible, I come and donate,” she says. “It means a lot to me.”
Heather’s story reminds us that blood donors save lives—lives like Phoenix’s and countless others. Though donors don’t often meet the people they help, their generosity makes a tangible difference in someone’s fight for survival.
“You could be saving somebody’s child, somebody’s mother, or somebody’s father,” Heather said. “Just keep donating, knowing that you’re making a difference in somebody’s life.”
Heather and her family’s experience led to the founding of the Phoenix Stone Foundation, which supports families facing similar challenges. Their mission serves as a beautiful testament to Phoenix’s life and legacy. Each year, the family hosts a community blood drive in his memory. To date, the generosity from donors of their 12 drives has impacted over 750 local patient lives.
If you’ve ever wondered whether donating blood really matters, Heather’s story is the answer. It’s a reminder that when we roll up our sleeves, we’re giving more than just blood—we’re giving time, hope, and life.
Ready to make a difference? Schedule your next blood donation today!