Meet the Siblings Whose Lives Were Saved by Generous Blood Donors—And How You Can Make a Difference
When you donate blood, you’re not just giving a pint—you’re giving people like Cadence and Chance the gift of life. Their inspiring journeys show just how critical blood donations are for patients facing congenital heart defects, critical heart surgeries, and chronic health challenges.
A Story of Strength and Survival
Chance was born with congenital heart defects, requiring open-heart and pacemaker surgeries. His younger sister, Cadence, was born with “half a heart” or Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome and has faced countless surgeries for her heart, liver, and gastrointestinal system. Every step of the way, blood donors have been their lifelines.
But Cadence’s challenges go beyond her heart. She lives with chronic conditions that cause daily pain and require frequent hospital stays. Despite this, she embraces life with remarkable courage and resilience. Her journey is filled with obstacles, but she faces each day with grace and dignity, refusing to let her health define her. “I may have health challenges, but they don’t define who I am. Blood donors have given me the chance to live my life, and for that, I’m endlessly grateful,” Cadence shares.
Living Life to the Fullest
Even with her health challenges, Cadence shines brightly. She’s an actress, musician, and junior chef, playing five instruments and dreaming of a career in acting and voice work. When she’s not advocating for heart health and blood donation, you can find her skateboarding, horseback riding, rock climbing, or surfing. Animals are her best friends—she volunteers with shelters, rescues, and farms and is even a reptile expert!
A big part of Cadence’s strength comes from her loyal support dog, Emmy, who works tirelessly to keep her safe and thriving. “Emmy gives me the confidence to face each day, no matter how hard it gets. She’s not just my service dog—she’s my best friend,” Cadence says. With Emmy by her side, Cadence navigates her health challenges with courage and determination.
Cadence’s dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed. She was named “Teen of Impact” by the American Heart Association for her advocacy and received the “Community Hero” award from the San Diego County Fair for her volunteer work.
Chance shares this same resilient spirit. After undergoing multiple heart surgeries, he graduated from the University of Redlands in 2024 with a degree in Computer Science. Both siblings will require additional blood transfusions throughout their lives, but their determination to live fully is unwavering. They love meeting and thanking blood donors, sharing their stories to inspire others.
Why Blood Donations Matter
Heart surgeries and congenital conditions like Cadence’s and Chance’s often require substantial and frequent blood transfusions. A single heart surgery can use up to six units of red blood cells, six units of platelets, and six units of plasma. Regular donations ensure that patients with heart-related conditions have the support they need—not just in emergencies, but throughout their lives.
Your donation doesn’t just help heart patients. It supports people recovering from trauma, battling disease, or living with chronic conditions. Every pint of blood can save up to three lives, creating a ripple effect across families and communities.
Be a Lifesaver: How You Can Help
Cadence and Chance’s stories are a powerful reminder of the impact blood donors have on real lives. When you donate, you’re not just giving blood—you’re giving hope, healing, and a future to people who depend on this vital resource.
Want to make an even bigger impact? Encourage friends and family to donate or organize a blood drive in your community. You never know whose life you might save—maybe even someone close to you.
Join the Lifesaving Mission
Cadence and Chance’s stories are a testament to the power of community and the difference donors make. By giving blood, you become part of a network of heroes committed to giving patients like them a second chance at life.
Ready to make a difference? Schedule your donation today! Together, we can ensure every patient has the chance to live a full, healthy life.
