Mike – Des Moines, IA
“I would like to think of myself as a ‘lifesaver’ and hopefully my plasma has prolonged the lives of others, so their families didn’t have to go through an unfortunate time.”
From Necessity to Generosity: Mike’s Start in Plasma Donation
Mike first started donating plasma to earn extra income while moving his family to Iowa as the holidays approached. He began donating at Octapharma in June of 2010.
A New Purpose Beyond Financial Need
Since the start of his plasma journey, a lot has changed for Mike and his family. His kids have graduated college and moved out on their own, and Mike can honestly say he doesn’t donate for the money anymore. Originally, he was in a race with a friend to reach 1,000 donations. Unfortunately, his friend became ill and was no longer able to donate. However, when Mike was at donation 700, it really became a goal of his to hit 1,000 donations at Octapharma in Des Moines.
Personal Connections
There are two main reasons that Mike continues to donate twice a week. The first reason is knowing that he is doing good for so many other people around the world. The second reason is all the employees and the other donors he has gotten to know during these 14 years.
Mike has seen a lot of people come and go and has even spent more hours there than some of the newer staff but seeing them weekly makes him feel as though they are a part of his extended family.
Mike’s wife is a liver transplant recipient, which she received on June 2, 1997. Although they did not meet until 2004, he knows she’s been the recipient of plasma also. This keeps him going – knowing he is making a difference in people’s lives.
Milestones Ahead
Mike will continue to donate, twice a week for as long as he can. He is currently almost at over 1,300 donations!
Join Mike and other incredible donors in making a difference. Transform your life and the lives of plasma recipients by becoming a donor today. Find a center near you to begin donating!
