03/14/2025
Thursday night at the Rotary Club of Folsom’s meeting, I was deeply moved by Ryan’s talk on the importance of blood, platelet, and plasma donation—a cause that has become close to my heart. It reminded me of a pivotal moment on June 16, 2020, the day we hiked Half Dome together, just 14 weeks after my brain surgery.
That hike was more than just a physical challenge; it was a moment of faith, courage, and growth. As I faced my greatest fear—the cables—Ryan was right behind me, guiding me every step of the way. That day also introduced me to the passion of both Ryan and our friend, Scott MacGregor for blood donation, which sparked my own journey. Just weeks later, I donated blood for the first time, with Vitalant and now, I’ve reached my two-gallon milestone—and I’m determined to keep going, knowing that each donation can potentially save lives.
In some beautiful way, that day set in motion a series of events that would later bring me and Ryan together in ways I never expected. It’s incredible to see how everything can come full circle, how passions and journeys intertwine in the most unexpected ways.
If you’re eligible, I encourage you to consider donating blood, platelets or plasma—one of the simplest, yet most powerful ways to save lives. You never know whose life you might change, or how that generosity could come back full circle in ways you never imagined.
