A genetic blood disorder has required Paul DiLorenzo to receive blood every three weeks. Over 27 years, he has received more than 2,000 units, given anonymously by people to whom Paul always says “thank you!”

Paul's Story

Paul DiLorenzo was diagnosed with thalassemia, a genetic blood disorder, when he was only one year old. Over 27 years, he has received more than 2,000 units of blood. Because no one in his family is a match for a bone marrow transplant, he has no chance for being cured and must continue to receive blood every three weeks for the rest of his life.

“It is a long and laborious but necessary process that allows me to live,” said Paul. “And yet, I would not be here today if people never donated blood. Over the years, as I was sitting in the hospital getting my blood transfusions, I would think about all the blood I received - over 250 gallons of blood. I would think to myself, “What would I say if I ever met one of those blood donors? How could I possibly express my deepest thanks to them?’”

Paul credits every moment of his life, the big ones and the little ones, to the generosity of all the people who donate blood and is very appreciative of his “gift of life.” He is now a graduate student and happily married to his wife, Melissa.

Paul has thought often about the unknown blood donors who allowed him to live. “You were always there, every step of the way,” he affirmed. “You allowed me to have all of these experiences because you gave me the gift of life. Thank you!”