The Other Side of The Bag
Have you ever thought about where your blood goes after you donate?
Have you ever thought about your blood actually saving another life?
Blood donation is so much more than the 10 minutes between the needle stick and juice and cookies. Your blood donation truly changes the life of a person in need.
J.T. Williamson
J.T. Williamson of SuperTalk Mississippi was a longtime supporter of Mississippi Blood Services. A man passionate about having blood on the shelves for Mississippi patients in need. But little did he know that the donations he once sought to recruit would one day be instrumental in giving him more time on earth.
Diagnosed with large B cell lymphoma in January of 2019, he started undergoing treatment including regular blood and platelet transfusions. He always knew the blood supply was important, but never knew how important until blood products weren't available when he needed them. He was a man passionate about blood donations; now he had to rely on the generosity of the donors he once recruited. 130 donors rolled up their sleeves across the state at different MBS locations crediting their donation to J.T.
J.T. lost his battle with lymphoma in the summer of 2021, but not before he let his listeners know that he "just wants folks to understand … you don't know what it's like until you're on the other side of the bag."
So, MBS wants to honor J.T.'s legacy by letting other patients tell their stories and spreading awareness about what life is like on "The Other Side Of The Bag."
Carson Wallace: EA27
Carson Wallace is a 12-year-old boy from Summit. He was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). Carson and his mother were determined to fight it. Carson is still battling this monster, but he continues to enjoy Legos, reading and science. Blood donors like you are the heroes that help patients like Carson win!
Za'Mareyah Johnson: ED60
Za'Mareyah Johnson, also fondly known as "Z", is a feisty young girl from Forest. She has to receive regular transfusions to treat Sickle Cell Disease, but she doesn't let that get her down. She goes with the flow even as her hospital stays become more frequent and longer. She loves babies and wants to grow up to work in a hospital taking care of babies who need help.
Marcus Kaszubowski: ED22
Marcus is a resident of Long Beach who was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). His treatment has included regular blood and platelet transfusions. He loves spending time with his wife and 2-year-old son, with another baby boy on the way! He enjoys being outside, especially on the river.
Axel Durr: ED66
Axel is a young boy diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). His diagnosis rocked his family's whole world. They love and support him and want to do everything they can to give him the best possible fight against cancer. He is an active little boy who misses riding his bike and being with his dog. In the meantime, he loves dinosaurs, vehicles and nerf guns to keep him busy and smiling.
Ryder Jackson: Code ED44
Ryder Jackson is a young boy from Long Beach battling Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). He loves his parents, his little sister and his grandmother. He enjoys watching Dragon Ball Z and Narturo, which he has gotten to spend a lot of time doing during treatment in the hospital. However, his favorite pastime is going fishing with his dad. He is ready to recover and get back to middle school.
Wade McGlothin: EE53
Wade is 88 years old and always loved to garden, until last year when he had Covid During that time, he discovered he had CLL, a chronic leukemia. He loves his family, his church and teaches a men's Sunday school class. Wade is always the one that calls people in our community who are sick to check on them. He carried the mail for about 40 years and always was on the lookout in January for the first yellow jonquil to pick for his wife, Lovie, because they are her favorite.
Kennedi Jackson: Code EC90
Kennedi Jackson is a middle schooler from Moorhead. She enjoys any type of performing - dancing, cheering or karaoke. Like most teenage girls, she loves chatting on the phone with her friends, editing videos and playing ROBLOX. One of her favorite things to do is cheer her for big brother in baseball. She was born with Sickle Cell Disease and has to receive regular blood transfusions.
Krew Polston: DZ83
Krew Polston is a baby boy from Winona. He was diagnosed with B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) and has to receive blood transfusions during his treatment. He likes to sit and play with his toys, especially ones that light up and spin. He enjoys spending time with his parents and loves watching his siblings. He loves to chit chat and can't wait to grow up to play with his brother and sister.
James "Lil James" Howell: EB92
James Howell, II is from Braxton. He has a twin brother and a little sister. James was diagnosed with Large Diffused B-Cell Lymphoma and also has hydronephrosis of the left kidney. He loves baseball and football. His favorite teams are the Atlanta Braves, Mississippi State Bulldogs and the New Orleans Saints. He likes to go hunting, fishing and riding on 4-wheelers. His favorite foods are steak, thin crust pizza and Mexican.
Reagan Cameron: ED12
Reagan, a resident of Sumrall, is married with two sons. Her world revolves around her family, and theirs around her. But now Reagan is facing a threat bigger than her community of friends and family can face alone: she has been diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). Part of her treatment will involve blood products, and that's where those outside her circle come in. Blood donors will play an integral part of helping this young wife and mother getting back to doing what she loves best: being there for her family.
James Watson: ED31
James Watson is a musician from Forest. He loves to rock out with his band, Kreeper Nelson, or just play guitar by himself. He loves spending time with his grandchildren who are the light of his life. James was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) and receives blood products during treatment.
Paul Wesley Stewart: EE38
Wesley Stewart is an exceptional young man with an amazing future that has been planned out by his Father in Heaven. He loves the Lord, his family, friends, traveling, photography, building and flying drones. Due to Covid, he has been on ECMO life support since December 31st...your blood donation is needed and greatly appreciated!
Ashley Goodson: EE20
Lover of family, animals, being kind and paying it forward. While others her age are living their best life, Ashley is fighting to beat Cancer! This isn't the only thing on her plate, Her Mother and cousin are in similar battles also! Make a difference for Ashley and other patients in Mississippi. Donate for Ashley!
Hannah Bree Hawn: EE39
This beauty wanted nothing more than to be a mother to her energetic 5 year old. However, Hannah Bree had something she needed to do first. Beat Leukemia! Hannah Bree is now in remission! During her treatment many blood and platelet transfusions were needed and it's unknown if there will be in the future. Hanna Bree and her family want to help give back by putting products back on the shelf so the next patient in need can do what she's enjoying. Getting back to playing dress up and having a tea party with her #1fan!
Shannon Moody: EC97
Shannon is battling Multiple Myeloma and makes having blood and blood products on the shelf that more important as she is fighting to prepare for a stem cell transplant.
Zane Frazier: EE14
A horrific traffic accident has Zane fighting for his life due to multiple injuries and internal bleeding. Due to Covid, Zane is battling alone due to visitor restrictions. Lets get this guy back to his family!
Hadley Black: DQ61
When Hadley was just a baby, she was diagnosed with ALL. She was in remission a few months but has now relapsed and fighting again. This precious 5-year old needs blood and platelets with hopes of a stem cell transplant.
Robbie Hamilton: EE48
Robbie has been in radio for years and is well-known for his community service. Robbie has just undergone extensive heart surgery and he and his family would like to pay it forward to others who donated prior to his need so that there will be blood on the shelf for future need. His friends will tell you that he helps MBS promote blood drives when on the radio. To hear him laugh is a gift because it's described as a real, honest- to-goodness, happy laugh! Robbie is still recovering in the hospital, so let's all show our support and roll up your sleeves and keep Robbie laughing!
Vickie S. Hanna: EI57
Vickie Hanna was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma in June of 2018. After having a Stem Cell Transplant in November of 2018, she was in remission for 3 years. In August of 2022, her cancer relapsed and she began a clinical trial. Currently, her body is not making platelets on its own, she has been in and out of the hospital receiving platelets and undergoing chemo. Vickie will need help from all of us to show up and donate so she can get back to her family!
Gabrielle "Gabby" Buford: EE80
Gabby is a positive, energic "Can Do" 12 year old who was recently diagnosed with a brain tumor. She loves soccer and her 3 younger siblings. It is possible that she will need blood/blood product transfusions during her course of treatment. Let's donate now and often to get Gabby home and back to being a big sister.
Sarai Mackey: EE62
At first glance, you wouldn't know this beautiful, confident, 17 year old young woman is battling with ITP, a rare autoimmune disorder that means she will have to have blood and transfusions throughout her life. How can we help? Let's all rally together and donate today and often to help her keep that beautiful smile on her face!
Sadie King: EE82
Sadie King is 7 years old. She has 1 brother, Kip. Sadie likes playing outside, playing cheer, dressing up and putting on makeup. She suffered a head injury in a swing accident and will need surgery. We all need to come together to ensure there is enough blood and blood products on the shelves. Share your love for Sadie!
Cruz Gracia: EI55
Meet Cruz, not yet 2, he just had his second open heart surgery! He loves Buzz Lightyear, lollipops, cows and construction trucks! He’s all boy and his big sister is his best friend! Cruz’s journey isn’t over. Let’s all be there by donating!
Grant McCurley: EE77
Grant is 34-year combat veteran who served in the Army National Guard from 2006 to 2012. Grant and his wife, Christina, have a daughter named Olivia - she is their heart and soul! He is the Amite County Emergency Management Director and Fire Chief for Liberty Volunteer Fire Department. He enjoys spending time outdoors and with his family. On November 17, 2021, Grant was diagnosed with a spinal cord tumor at his T1 vertebrae. Let's help Grant so he can continue to be the great guy he is!
McKenzie Cotton: EF00
McKenzie Cotton is a beautiful, 14 year old girl who was recently in a horrible accident. She enjoys tennis, doing her hair, competing in pageants, playing with her dog Gracie and being the life of the party! No matter what, McKenzie always had a smile on her face. Let's donate for her so she can get back to all the things she loves!
Dylan Johnson: EE99
Dylan Johnson, was recently shot by a stray bullet. Our hearts are heavy for what this sweet, 8-year-old boy and his family are currently going through and we hope and pray for his healing! Let's all show our love and support for Dylan by donating blood for him!
Terrell Walters: EF03
Recently, Mr. Terrell was involved in an accident at his home. He is still currently in the SICU at UMMC. He is the first and last smiling face that many of his students see, as he is a bus driver for Pelahatchie Attendance Center. When he is not driving the bus, he is tinkering in the shop, spending time with his grandchildren, or on a road trip with his wife. Whether it's helping a neighbor, encouraging a young person, or being a leader in the community you can always find him there. Thank you for the out pour of support and for your donation during this time of need.
Joshlyn Necaise: EE56
Joshlyn Necaise is a outgoing, kind, loving, 12 year old girl who unfortunately has been diagnosed with T-ALL leukemia. She still has her positive spirit despite everything that has happened. She will need transfusions during her aggressive treatments. Let's get Joshlyn what she needs on her road to recovery. Donate for Joshlyn at any Mississippi Blood Services locations.
Michelle Breckley: EF09
Michelle is a devoted wife and energetic mother of a 3 month old & a 5 year old. She has recently been diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Michelle will need us all to step up to donate in order to get her the blood and blood products she'll need during her fight.
Ella Spinks: EF14
On March 31, 2022, Ella Spinks was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Ella is a bubbly, outgoing young lady that enjoys to paint, ride four wheelers and most of all spending time with her family and friends. Ella is battling against ALL. With your Blood and Blood product donations and prayers, she will beat cancer and continue her special journey of life. Let's do it for Ella!
Robert "Bob" Harris: EF47
Worship Leader. Cheesecake Chef. Grocery Shopper. Grass cutter. Pawpaw. His current illness is threatening his ability to do the things he loves most and will soon be having surgery. Let's gather together and give the gift of life by donating blood and blood products!
Juquitta Hill: EF26
To this beautiful 29-year-old mother, her main focus and concern is her 3 precious children. Unfortunately, Juquitta was born with a Chiari Malformation. This is a condition in which brain tissue extends into the spinal canal. Symptoms include pain and trouble swallowing and treatment involves monitoring and perhaps surgery. Juquitta has had surgery in the past and will most likely need It again as she raises her family. We can make a difference by donating blood today and often to help patients like Juquitta!
Jett Bufkin: DW90
Jett is a bright young man who recently tested positive for the BK virus, which can affect kidney function. He has undergone a stem cell transplant and is currently awaiting stem cell engraftment, the process in which transplanted stem cells travel through the blood to the bone marrow, where they begin to make new white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. Jett's treatment requires whole blood, platelets and blood products for transfusions. Donate for Jett so he can knock this virus out quickly and get back home to all of his friends and family!
Sarah Ginn: DV91
Sarah is a mother and wife that is living with Diamond-Blackfan Anemia (DBA). DBA does not define her but she will need units of blood and blood products to sustain her looking at the long haul. Come out, roll up your sleeves and give life to Sarah and other Mississippi patients in need.
Harper Shea Landry: EF91
This is Harper Landry. She may be tiny but, she is twenty pounds of determination, drive, and lovable mischief. She idolizes her big sister and big brother but, her very best friend is our family cat, "Squishy". At eighteen months she is already the world's best dancer and a true connoisseur of all things Pringle's. She has been diagnosed with Acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Let's keep this sweet girl smiling by donate blood and blood products!
Wyatt Waters: EG67
Meet 10 month old Wyatt! He enjoys watching Bluey and Cocomelon, having books read to him, and snuggling! His favorite toys are his fox, lion, hanging monkey, and Ferris wheel. He also loves to look at his mobile at night when he’s getting ready to go to sleep and has to have a fan blowing on him all the time. Wyatt has been on his journey to wellness since birth and is still in need of all our help!
Swayzie Rae Gundy: EG36
Swayzie is a smart and kind 5 year old with a touch of sass. She loves her family, all things girly, mermaids and her golden doodle, Ruger. She is just beginning her battle with T Cell ALL and will need donors across the state to donate blood to help this sweetheart reach her main goal…to be a real life mermaid! Swim on in for Swayzie!
Kimberly Etherington: EF71
Kimberly and her husband Jordan are Mississippi transplants but it didn't take long to become part of the community and members of their church family. Kimberly was diagnosed with Burkitt's Lymphoma which requires blood and blood product transfusions in conjunction to her treatment. Kimberly, like many Mississippians (whether born here or not) needs our help with life saving blood and blood product donations. Become a lifesaver today.
Amy Rice Gables: EG18
Meet Amy! She is a wife, mother, beloved teacher and breast cancer survivor! Students and Faculty of Madison Middle School even threw her a parade celebrating her being cancer-free!
While Amy is all of the above, she is now fighting another uphill battle.. Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). Some facing yet another diagnosis might feel like giving up, but not Amy! Her faith, love, determination, and blood products from donors like YOU, will see her see this through to have another celebration of beating cancer. Donate today and often for Amy and other Mississippians in need!
Kyler Hall: EG56
Meet Kyler Hall, this always moving 10 year old loves to fish! When he's not fishing, he's thinking about fishing. He and big brother Hayden are best buds and by his side you'll find his trusty companion, his dog Roscoe! Kyler is missing all of this at present because he is in a battle with AML. He is going to need our help to win the battle and will need your blood and blood product donations! Let's kick it for Kyler!
Jeremiah Funchess: EF95
To look at this handsome smiling face, you would never think he receives regular transfusions due to Sickle Cell Anemia. The worry when crisis hits is will there be a match for Jeremiah? That's why we ask for donors to donate blood and often for Jeremiah and others just like him across the state. Be there for this sweet boy by rolling up your sleeves so we can get him back to being the happy toddler he is!
Patsy Carr: EF99
Patsy Carr is currently fighting large B-cell lymphoma. She is a 19 year breast cancer survivor who enjoys sewing, gardening, antique vehicles, and traveling. She is active in her church playing handbells, singing in the church choir, and serving on a number of committees. She has been a volunteer with the American Cancer Society since 2005. Please help support Patsy by volunteering to donate blood!
Bobby Rayburn: EG35
Always going! Mr. Rayburn loves spending time with his family, working in his garden and fixing cars of all types! He is using both blood and platelets and needs us to come together to make sure it's on the shelf when he needs it! Let's give for Bobby Rayburn and get him back doing what he loves!
D’Marin “Dee” Burns: EI52
Meet Dee. At 18 years old, he should just be tackling the great big wide world. Instead, Dee is fighting Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma. Treatment often includes Chemo and Radiation at the same time and will need all of us to show up for him and donate to help him in his journey!
James "Baby Wade" Ricks: EH09
Meet James "Baby Wade" Ricks!
This handsome little fella is always smiling! His favorite thing to do is play with his big sister; they are best friends! Baby Wade was diagnosed with Craniosynostosis August 26th. The CT showed two premature fused sutures. His first surgery was September 12th and his next surgery is planned for December 2nd to remove the springs. Let's donate blood for Baby Wade!
Sylvia Purvis: EH34
Meet Sylvia Purvis! Her hobbies are reading, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. She has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and will need blood donors to donate for her now and often to ensure blood is readily available during her treatment. Roll up your sleeves for Sylvia!
Johnny Austin Germany, Jr.: EI56
Johnny is a farmer who loves spending time with his family and fishing every chance he gets. He is currently battling Lymphoma which has sidelined him. This journey will require our help. Donate blood for Johnny!
KK Aldridge: EH27
Coach KK Aldridge is the Head Baseball Coach for Northwest Rankin High School. KK has grown up and lived in the Fannin area most of his life. In 2012, Coach Aldridge was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma. He was able to have a lymph node removed with no further treatment necessary. In August of 2022, doctors found several cancerous masses, B Cell Lymphoma. KK is currently undergoing Chemo treatments. KK and his wife, Malorie, have both taught and coached at Brandon and at NWR. They have three children, Acey (5), Kaynslie (3), and Kayde (1).
The Aldridge family: "We are truly so blessed to have our community support us and walk alongside our family as we continue along this journey. Thank you for all the prayers, support and love you have shown our family. We are truly grateful for each of you!"
William "Baby" Leverett: EH42
Meet William "Baby" Leverett! He is a loving husband, father and grandfather. He enjoys spending time with this family and tending to his farm. Baby is currently dealing with some health issues that requires blood transfusion. Please find it in your heart to donate blood for Baby, so he can continue to make special memories with his family and friends!
Keisha Stringfellow: EH38
Meet Keisha Stringfellow! The day before her birthday in 2020, she learned she had Stage 2 Breast Cancer. Fear, devastation and confusion were just a few of the emotions she felt when the doctor came in and confirmed her diagnosis. Soon after, she realized maybe the reason she was faced with this battle was so she could be a testimony for someone else. Although this disease has taken so much from her, it has also given her so much more. She has a tremendous support system who continuiously provide love and prayer! Keisha asks for anyone that can give blood, will do so with the understanding their donation is an important piece to a very complicated puzzle. Keisha: "Much love to those who take the time out to donate blood, you are truly appreciated!"
Trent Hartzog: EI32
Meet Trent, 34 year old husband and father of 2. In a vicious battle with Leukemia, it will take blood transfusions to give Trent the support he will need to support him in his journey to recovery.
Mabrey Logan: EI59
Mabrey is a bright and happy 10 year old who loves horses and would like to have one of her very own. She has two older sisters and one older brother. Her pals are the family dogs Finn, Gizmo and Maggie. She is fighting Non-Hodgkin’s T-Cell Lymphoblastic Lymphoma.
Damon Moore: EI51
Meet 10 year old Damon Moore. Just a few weeks ago, Damon was a regular curious 10 yr. old boy. But a chemical explosion changed all that. Damon has 3rd degree burns and has already gone through multiple surgeries with more to come. He is going to need all of our help! Donate for Damon Moore, Jr.
Sarah Smith: EI02
Winter break gives both students and teachers the time to breathe and reset for the next session. Teacher Sarah Smith is no different. While on break, Sarah was involved in an accident that resulted in multiple surgeries and a long rehab process to get Sarah back in the classroom!
Chastity Steadham: EJ09
Chastity is a sister, mother, grandmother and awesome friend. She is passionate about helping others in need and hosts clothing drives for the homeless. Chastity has been diagnosed with Acute Leukemia and will rely on blood donors to get her back to doing the things she loves!
Natalie Cooper Cole Hughes: DZ25
Natalie began her journey with Neutropenia and Aplastic Anemia three years ago when she was just 5! Her journey continues including several ups and downs but is now preparing for a Stem Cell transplant that could change everything. She is still using blood and needs all of our help!
Ledger Smith: EJ22
Ledger is a 3 year old boy who believes he is a wrestler one day, and superhero the next! He never meets a stranger and will talk your ear off; he'll even go as far to express how he feels about you (good or bad). Ledger is smart, handsome, sweet and strong; he will let NOTHING keep him down! He wrestles anything that comes his way and Ledger WILL WIN! He is fighting Leukemia now and will need our strength to help him to his next victory!