Monday, August 3 (2026) — Owosso, MI — In 2012, Dr. David Huff, a primary care physician at Memorial Healthcare, was diagnosed with Hairy Cell Leukemia. This disease is a rare, slow-growing blood cancer that occurs when the bone marrow makes too many abnormal white blood cells. For many years, Dr. Huff was in remission, but in late 2025, his leukemia returned, and he is currently receiving treatment at Memorial Healthcare’s Cancer Center, where he is undergoing blood transfusions.
As Dr. Huff continues his treatment journey, his experience serves as a reminder of the critical role blood donors play in the lives of cancer patients and countless others facing serious medical conditions. Many leukemia patients require blood and platelet transfusions throughout treatment to help combat anemia, infection risks, and other complications associated with both the disease and its treatment.
“The blood transfusions I receive at the Memorial Healthcare Cancer Center allow me to stay alive,” said Dr. Huff. “Without blood donations, I wouldn’t be able to keep living.”
The need for blood donations remains constant. The American Red Cross collects and distributes blood products that support patients in hospitals and cancer centers across the country. A single donation can help multiple patients, and maintaining an adequate blood supply is essential to ensuring that lifesaving treatments are available when needed. However, maintaining an adequate blood inventory depends on the willingness of eligible donors to give regularly.
“I am so thankful to the people who give blood,” said Dr. Huff. “It only takes a small amount of time to give and save a life.”
Dr. Huff and his family are grateful for the exceptional care provided by the team at the Memorial Healthcare Cancer Center, as well as the support, prayers, and encouragement from friends, colleagues, patients, and community members.
Community members eligible to donate blood are encouraged to consider scheduling a donation with the American Red Cross. Blood donations help support patients battling cancer, individuals recovering from surgery or traumatic injuries, and those living with chronic illnesses that require transfusion support.
As Dr. Huff continues his treatment, his experience underscores the vital need for blood donations in our community. Patients battling leukemia and other cancers often depend on blood and platelet transfusions throughout treatment. A single blood donation can help save multiple lives and provide hope to patients facing cancer, serious illnesses, traumatic injuries, and complex surgeries.
The Memorial Healthcare Auxiliary, in partnership with the American Red Cross, hosts several blood drives on its main campus. The next blood drive is scheduled for Friday, August 7. To schedule your donation, please visit www.redcrossblood.org.