Blood donation has become personal for the Malinski family of Mankato, Minnesota. Their daughter Melody came into the world in late December 2020, with a congenital heart defect called hypoplastic left heart syndrome. At just five days old Melody faced open heart surgery, and then again had another open heart surgery when she was five months old. During both surgeries, Melody needed 8 units of lifesaving blood, and it’s likely she will need more for her next scheduled open heart surgery in 2025.
“We are so grateful blood was there when Melody needed it,” says Melody’s mom, Kelli Malinski, who also needed two transfusions after experiencing blood loss during labor.
Melody is almost four years old and is getting ready to attend preschool. “She’s our world,” said her dad, Sam Malinksi. “She’s a really special kid,” Kelli Malinski adds. “You can’t see her scars, but we know what she’s been through at such a young age. Right now, she a happy, normal toddler, who loves to swim and play just like other kids her age.”
Kelli credits blood with saving her and her daughter’s life and gives back regularly – recently receiving a one-gallon blood donation pin. “I’m passionate about blood donation and it’s important to me to give back – giving blood is such a small thing you can do that has a truly amazing impact.”
She also encourages, and hopes, others will give too. “It’s a great way to help others in need and a wonderful way to give back to your community. You’ll be happy you did it – Melody and I are living proof that blood helps save lives.”
September is National Preparedness Month. A strong blood supply is key to preparedness for disasters and medical emergencies, and donors are needed to help ensure blood is on the shelves the moment it’s needed.
Roll up your sleeve, your small act of giving might be a lifeline for someone like Kelli or Melody. Schedule your donation now.
American Red Cross Minnesota and Dakotas Region 