Twenty Minutes Versus a Lifetime
By Lauren Williams
When she was born, Claudia McCray looked just like a normal baby. But at nine months, her parents and devoted grandfather noticed that her right eye protruded slightly. An examination revealed a cancerous tumor lurking behind it and pressuring her carotid artery. On September 29, 2004, Claudia was admitted for an invasive surgery. Her grandfather, Jim Kessler, describes the scene: “ … they opened her completely up … When they tried to remove it, it ripped her carotid artery open. She lost twice her volume in blood in the surgery, so they had to transfuse her …” Kessler’s face, which is usually relaxed in an easy-going smile, grew taut with emotion. “The doctor really thought that … we would lose her.” However, Claudia survived and is a living example of the power of personal sacrifice.
The Grace College men’s basketball coach smiles once again as he encourages students to donate blood. “The point is, I think, Grace College students are a great source of good blood. We don’t have a lot of addicts; they haven’t been exposed to a lot of diseases. I don’t think they realize, you know, twenty minutes of your time can save a little girl’s life like Claudia’s. … It hurts like a shot – you know, big deal – in perspective it’s nothing. … Somebody – some people – who gave blood … Claudia’s with us today because they were willing to do that.”
Overall, Claudia is able to enjoy a happy childhood. Although she cannot use her right eye, her grandfather proudly relates that she enjoys coming to Grace College basketball games attired in her very own cheerleading outfit. The story doesn’t end here, however. Claudia is scheduled for surgery to have her eye removed on May 1 and consequently, will need more blood. Grace students had an opportunity to fulfill many needs like Claudia’s by donating their blood on April 30 at the Gordon Recreation Center from 12-5:15 p.m. Coach Kessler commented, “It’s a thoughtful thing to do, and as believers, we talk about … character, competence and service. That’s an ultimate gift of service. … To me, that’s a real act of love.” For any first-time donors who are still apprehensive of the situation, Coach Kessler offers this advice: “ … It’s really not that scary. … So it hurts? Big deal. … You’re going to save a life. … So do it!”
