8-Year-Old Cancer Survivor Hosts Blood Drive in Spring Hill

An 8-year-old girl who survived a rare brain cancer is turning her gratitude into action with a blood drive that could save dozens of lives.

Maddie Rea will host her second community blood drive on March 27 at Church of the City in Spring Hill, Tennessee. The event runs from 1 to 7 p.m. and welcomes both appointments and walk-ins.

Nearly two years ago, Maddie was fighting medulloblastoma, a rare form of brain cancer. Her treatment required 16 blood transfusions, each one donated by a stranger who showed up to give.

Her mom, Brittany Doucey, remembers the fear of what could have happened. "I can't imagine hearing that there wasn't enough of a supply to help our daughter in her time of need," she said.

That fear transformed into purpose. The Rea family partnered with Blood Assurance, the nonprofit that supplies blood to most Middle Tennessee hospitals, including Williamson Health where Maddie was treated.

The Ripple Effect

Every blood donation can help up to three patients. Cancer treatments, surgeries, trauma care, and chronic illnesses all depend on steady blood supplies.

When someone donates at a Blood Assurance drive, that blood stays local. It helps neighbors like Maddie who need it most.

The March 27 drive is already full for appointments, but walk-ins will be accommodated as space allows. Blood Assurance is also offering a $25 e-gift card to all donors who give between March 26 and March 31, plus a chance to win $100.

Anyone 17 or older (or 16 with parental consent) who weighs at least 110 pounds and is in good health can donate. Blood Assurance recommends eating a healthy meal and drinking plenty of fluids before giving.

For those who can't make the Spring Hill drive, donations can be made at any Blood Assurance location, including the Franklin donor center on Frazier Drive. Sixteen people showed up for Maddie when she needed them most, and now she's inviting her community to show up for the next patient waiting for hope.