It’s that time of year again – when we come together for Essex Fire Department’s Annual Blood Drive, in memory of my daughter Addi, 15A1. Addi lived a Big Beautiful Life with unparalleled passion and purpose as a beloved member of the Essex Fire Family, her Essex Vermont neighbors, the national medical & emergency services communities and many loving friends and organizations that helped her thrive.

She also courageously fought a life-long progressive battle with a complex, cruel mystery disease which included severe blood and bone marrow disorders. Yet, she had an indomitable spirit and met life with joy, never acknowledging her life was hard. Not once. We hope she leaves everyone her life has touched inspired to be present in life, believe in possibilities, find joy and help others.

The need for blood is constant and only volunteer donors can fulfill that need for patients in our community. Nationwide, someone needs a unit of blood every 2 to 3 seconds and most of us will need blood in our lifetime. About 1 in 7 people entering a hospital need blood. One pint of blood can save up to three lives.

Blood products breathed life back into our child countless times so she could continue to inspire us. We want the same for others. Give blood. Save lives.

In addition to Blood Donations, we will be collecting food and monetary donations for Aunt Dots Pantry, Essex Fire and Big Beautiful Life. Come Learn more about our important work.

– February Blood Donors will receive a $20 Amazon.com Gift Card by email.
– Enter Aunt Dot’s Raffle for a chance to win a $50 Nusantara Gift Card or tickets to Essex Cinema.
– Sign in at the Big Beautiful Life / Essex Fire Table and be entered into a drawing for a Big Beautiful Life YETI Water Bottle.

Can’t join us in person or interested in Other Ways to Help? https://bigbeautifullife.org/blood-drive