A Recipient Story: Chris

Chris Williams was first diagnosed with inflammatory arthritis about nine months ago. It was during the process of treating that condition that it was discovered he had no antibodies. “My immune system had been nearly wiped out. The diagnosis was common variable immunodeficiency (CVID).” Despite having “common” in the name, it was fairly rare in that roughly just 1 in 35,000 people have it.

It was also then that Chris learned the only solution for his condition was infusions made from human blood donations. “I was immediately started on monthly infusions of immunoglobulin, which is made from the blood of many different donors. Getting this infusion every month not only eases the inflammation from my arthritis, but more importantly, it protects me from serious illnesses thanks to the antibodies from all these donors. Donated blood products are keeping me safe every month and they vastly improve my quality of life. Knowing that I’m getting the antibodies from thousands of donors in a single infusion is pretty cool. I’m extremely thankful for all the research going on which makes this treatment possible.”

Chris was also a former blood donor. “My first time, I was apprehensive about the process but there is honestly nothing to be afraid of. The nurses are always extremely helpful, and the process is painless and quick. Donating blood is something that almost anyone can do, and I can honestly say it is saving so many lives just like mine,” Chris says. “On behalf of other recipients like me, thank you for your donations. They make a huge difference in many lives.”