Blood donations play crucial role in cancer treatment
This September, during Childhood Cancer Awareness and Blood Cancer Awareness Month, nonprofit Vitalant encourages blood donors to give, highlighting the crucial role blood and platelets play in cancer treatments. More than a quarter of the U.S. blood supply goes to help patients during cancer treatment.
In August 2025, at just 5 years old, Caison Johnson was diagnosed with T-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (T-ALL). Since then, the Fayette County youth has faced chemotherapy, brain radiation, hospital stays, and countless procedures with incredible courage. Throughout his treatment, he has relied on numerous blood and platelet transfusions made possible by generous blood donors.
“If I could thank blood donors directly, I would tell them their support is truly lifesaving,” said Caison’s mother, Jerilyn. “Not just for Caison, but for everyone who needs blood. We are grateful beyond words.”
Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. Donors are needed every day to provide a steady supply of all blood types, especially type O blood and platelets. Type O helps more patients than any other blood type. Platelets are most often used to help those battling cancer and must be used within a week of donation, making regular donations that much more vital.
Review eligibility requirements and make an appointment to give by visiting vitalant.org, download and use the Vitalant blood donor app or call 877-25-VITAL (877-258-4825). Those who donate blood, platelets or plasma Sept. 11 to 30 will be automatically entered for a chance to win one of two $10,000 gift cards. Donors who give during all of September can receive a glow-in-the-dark T-shirt in time for Halloween. Visit vitalant.org/FallGiveaway for more information.
A blood drive will be held in Caison’s honor on Friday, Nov. 27, at the German Township Municipal Building in Fayette County to help ensure lifesaving blood is available for the next child, cancer patient, or person in need.