In memory of Jessica...

People don’t often think about the need for blood unless they have a close family member or friend who is need. Sometimes the need is even personal.

National statistics state that approximately 38% of the population is able to donate, yet only about 5% actually do.  These are amazing statistics considering at some point in life 75% will need blood.

Shannon Stuart and Sarah Collins know the importance of having units of blood and platelets available first-hand because Sarah’s sister, Jessica Ernsberger, needed several transfusions as she battled breast cancer. Now, Stuart and Collins are looking to give back.

“We are hosting several blood drives throughout the year that are going to be centered around someone in the community.  We believe this is a wonderful way to honor someone, and each time the drives will bring in a whole new crowd,” said Collins.

A South Bend Medical Foundation Blood Drive will be held to honor the memory of Jessica Ernsberger on Wednesday, August 8^th from 1pm until 6pm at the North Liberty Church, 65225 State Road 23.  To make an appointment to donate call Shannon at 574.298.5656 or email peteshannon2001@aol.com.

Jessica was diagnosed with stage 4 Inflammatory Breast Cancer in June of 2009. She aggressively fought the disease by having her breast removed, a complete hysterectomy and several rounds of chemotherapy.

She not only was concerned for her own life, but tried to maintain a happy home for her husband, TJ, and their five children under the age of 13: Gavin, Gabe, Skyler, Emma and Chevy.

She responded to the treatment and things were going well until May of 2011 when Jessica was rushed to the Emergency Room after having a seizure. This time, the cancer was back and it had spread to her brain. 

Again, Jessica endured chemotherapy and radiation during the summer, but found herself back in the hospital in August with pneumonia. She returned home for a week and lost her battle with cancer on August 15, 2011.

“My sister was just 31 when she passed and she used a lot of platelets during her chemotherapy.  She knew everyone in the community and she always cared about her family and friends.  She fought hard and never let anyone feel sorry for her and even in her last days she was determined to get better,” said Collins.

Jessica was from Walkerton but lived in North Liberty with her family, who still resides there.

Collins and Stuart hope the community shows their support for Jessica and her family during the South Bend Medical Foundation Blood Drive in Jessica’s honor on August 8^th.

“I think a lot of people don’t realize how important donating is, until someone they know has to have blood,” said Collins.

Support the blood drive in memory of Jessica Ernsberger on Wednesday, August 8^th from 1pm until 6pm at the North Liberty Church, 65225 State Road 23.  Make an appointment to donate by calling Shannon at 574.298.5656 or email peteshannon2001@aol.com.