Decades later, a second opinion leads to donor service
As Carter BloodCare looks back on 75 years of service in 2026, it’s important to reflect on the progress of blood transfusion in that time. Crucial strides have been made in the understanding and use of this vital resource for donors and patients.
In her own words, North Texas resident Gail Watkins shares a personal page on the history and advancements in donations and transfusions:
When I was 12 years old, during a visit with my grandmother, I felt this excruciating pain in my right side. It paralyzed me for a few minutes.
My mother was called, and she made a doctor’s appointment for me to determine the cause of the discomfort. I was a very healthy child until this event occurred, and this was my first doctor’s visit.
After running tests and examining me, the doctor told my mother that I had a sickle cell anemia trait.
In 1961, the medical staff did not test Black babies after their birth. Due to the lack of research and treatment for this disease, the doctor told my mother I wouldn’t live past 21. Years later, I found out this statement was due to his lack of knowledge about this disease.
On my 21st birthday, my mother revealed she was told this information as she was concluding my doctor’s visit. Of course, the doctor was incorrect. Yet, my mother carried around this burden for many years.
In 2023, I decided to ask Carter BloodCare if I was eligible to donate whole blood. To my surprise, the response was “Yes.” I was shocked because I was told that I couldn’t donate because of the sickle cell anemia trait.
I have been successfully donating for two years now to help Carter BloodCare support sickle cell patients.
Resources
Learn more about sickle cell disease
If you’ve ever received a blood, platelet or plasma transfusion, please share your story and inspire others to donate.