First 'Continue the Commitment' Winners Announced

January 14, 2010

Congratulations to these winners in the “Continue the Commitment” promotion! These individuals were among the many who have shared their stories about why they Commit for Life. In addition to having their stories featured here, they are the recipients of 500 points for the Commit for Life store.

Read their stories below to learn why they Commit for Life, and submit your story if you haven’t yet!

Michael Crowley

"I came as close as one can get to losing my lovely wife in a horrific car accident on March 12, 2009, and if it were not for 58 generous donors she would not be here today. I never imagined people could need so much blood but after witnessing my wife's ordeal, standing next to her bed and seeing "donor" written on the bags of blood connected to her body, and seeing other people in the ICU consume similar quantities of blood and only survive because of generous donors, I vowed to become a lifetime donor and give as often as allowed.  Our three grown, wonderful daughters did the same.  We have all donated at least three times since the accident and will maximize our donations in 2010 and beyond. Thank you for facilitating our effort to help others."

Patricia Hamaker

"Three weeks after having my last child, I found myself back in the hospital and in need of surgery. I also was in need of five pints of blood to replace the blood I was losing. I was very lucky that I was able to receive the blood I needed and the blood type I needed. I am very grateful to those who had donated blood and that I was able to receive the blood in time for me to continue to be a mother to my girls, a wife to my husband and see the beautiful faces of my granddaughters.

"I was lucky enough to work for a company that did blood drives and supported the Houston community.  I became a regular blood donor to help others that found themselves in need of blood.  Why, it feels great to help save lives."