Jim Kavanagh relies on regular infusion therapy to manage symptoms of myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and support his overall health
EAST ISLIP, NY – New York Blood Center (NYBC) hosted a blood drive with the East Islip Fire Department on Saturday, November 8, in honor of Jim Kavanagh, an East Islip resident who relies on infusion therapy and blood transfusions to manage his myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), a group of disorders causing improperly formed or malfunctioning blood cells. Blood donations and regular transfusions have been critical in supporting Jim’s health journey.
Jim was hospitalized in December 2024 with severe bleeding and was later diagnosed with MDS, a condition that causes the body to reject platelets. As a result, he requires infusion therapy and blood transfusions every two to three weeks. The Kavanagh family encouraged the East Islip community to come together in recognition of Jim’s life, resilience, and generosity toward others.
The drive was a party atmosphere that celebrated Jim’s survival. Jim’s wish is to host regular blood drives to replenish some of the over 80 pints of blood he received between 12/8/24 and 12/24/24, the time of his diagnosis and hospitalization.
This year’s drive served as Jim’s opportunity to see and thank the family and friends who had supported his wife, Sue, and sons, Spencer and Hunter, throughout the past year.
Committed to paying it forward, the Kavanagh family plans to continue sponsoring blood drives and helping replenish the blood supply, as Jim still receives regular blood and transfusion therapy to control his disease.
