Blood Drive in Honor of Elmhurst Resident Who Has Helped Empower Many

Elmhurst resident Connie Lee has spent years helping others choose to live without fear and take the steps necessary to lead a joy-filled life. She is an author and inspiration to many, and she's gotten to that point by overcoming some major challenges in her own life.

Learn a lot more about Connie's journey in this Feb. 2012 Elmhurst Patch article:  Elmhurst's Connie Lee Empowers Others Through Lessons Learned From Her Own Painful Experiences.

Those Connie has helped, and anyone touched by her gentle light and generous spirit, now can pay it forward. Connie remains a strong, positive person, but her battles are not over yet.

Connie has breast cancer and is "transfusion dependent," meaning she has to have constant blood transfusions to fight this disease. She has needed more than 60 pints of blood since April. 

Integrative Family Health Associates in La Grange is helping Connie get well, and also getting the word out about blood donation. The blood she receives is from volunteer donors in the community, and Connie and her doctors would like to help replenish the supply—for Connie and all of those in need. Elmhurst Toyota Scion also has gotten into the action by being a host site for the on-going "Connie's Fight Against Breast Cancer Blood Drive."

If you are healthy, at least 17 years old (16 with parental consent) and weigh at least 110 pounds, please consider visiting Elmhurst Toyota Scion, 440 W. Lake St., on Saturday, Oct. 19. Blood donations will be accepted between noon and 4 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome. To make an appointment, email Christina at hart@integrativeFHA.com, or call (773) 454-5628.  Donors need to be sure to eat a good meal and drink plenty of water before donating.

Those who can't make it on Saturday can donate any time between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday at the ALPS (Adventist Lab Partners) Blood Center, 121 N. Elm St., Hinsdale. Call (630) 856-7804 to make an appointment.

Those who can't donate can still help by spreading the word, and sending prayers and good thoughts Connie's way.

Connie told Elmhurst Patch last year she chooses to be a victor, not a victim. She continues to view challenges as opportunities and help others learn to let their light shine in the face of adversity, a message all can take to heart and reflect back toward others.