In 2021, the coed service fraternity Alpha Phi Omega at Ohio State University brought Gift of Life Campus Ambassadors to talk about the importance of the marrow registry and invite people to join. Over 50 APO members swabbed, one of whom was Caroline. 

“Growing up, I had a few people in my life pass from cancer,” said Caroline. “I thought that since I am healthy and could possibly save someone’s life, then why not swab my cheek. I figured that there was no reason not to do so.” 

On her birthday the next year, Caroline was on her way to class when she received a call from a Florida phone number. 

“When I answered the phone, the person on the other end said she was with Gift of Life,” said Caroline. “She explained that I was potentially a match for a man in his 50s battling Acute Myelogenous Leukemia, but that I would need some additional testing to confirm that I was an exact match. I said ‘of course I would.’ I remember being very surprised that I had been called so soon and on my birthday of all days! The Campus Ambassadors had said that some people go years without being called, if at all. I was excited to have this opportunity to give my recipient the chance of feeling better.” 

After her blood test confirmed that she was the best match for her recipient, Gift of Life arranged for Caroline and her mother, who she brought as her companion, to fly to South Florida so she could donate at the Adelson Collection Center in Boca Raton. 

“The people at the Gift of Life were very nice and accommodating,” said Caroline. “The whole experience went smoothly and I appreciate everything that the team did to make this easy and comfortable for me. During my donation, I talked to my mom – we spoke about my graduation and Christmas plans – and watched "Wednesday" on Netflix. I was definitely very nervous, but my donation did not take too long. My recovery was fast, and I felt back to normal a few days after my donation.”

For most, this is where the story would end, but not for Caroline. She was called by Gift of Life in the summer of 2023 to donate again, this time, white blood cells. Occasionally, a recipient may need an infusion of additional immune cells to strengthen their new immune system and help the transplant fully take hold.  

“I got the call that my recipient needed a T-Cell transfer while at work,” said Caroline. “It was right after my 6-month checkup so I was not sure what the call would be. I was more than ready to say yes to donating again, and am grateful that I am able to help again.”

Caroline returned to Gift of Life’s headquarters to donate white blood cells in July. 

“The second time donating went just as smoothly as the first,” said Caroline. “The staff was fantastic again, very kind and accommodating. This second donation reinforced how grateful I am of this opportunity. I hope the best for my recipient, and if donating again helps them get well sooner, it is worth it.”

Caroline’s experience has encouraged her to be the best version of herself. 

“Donating has helped me create a different perception of my life,” said Caroline. “I cherish my health more now than I did before and I am working on bettering myself even more. This really taught me that it is okay to do things that scare you. I was worried about it initially and nervous about what would happen. I wasn’t sure if I would even answer the phone at first, but I am glad I did. It was something new to me and now that I have donated, I don’t regret a thing.” 

Caroline, 22, graduated from The Ohio State University where she was also a member of the Alpha Phi Omega service fraternity. She still lives in Ohio and now works as a senior customer service specialist. In her free time, Caroline enjoys crocheting, going on walks with her dog, and spending time with family.