Three years ago Michelle and her husband Kojo moved from New Jersey to Houston ready to settle into life with their growing family. Nothing could have prepared them for what would happen after the birth of their youngest daughter last January.

Michelle delivered at home but soon suffered a Class Four hemorrhage, a life threatening emergency. As hemorrhagic shock set in, EMS arrived and began giving blood on board during transport. That immediate access to blood saved her life.

Kojo and Michelle Nkunim with their children.

“We were blessed it was there when I needed it,” Michelle said.

As their daughter’s first birthday approached, she and Kojo wanted to honor the milestone by giving back. Michelle reached out to the American Red Cross and quickly found support, partners, and a church willing to host. With the help of Red Cross team members, the family set a goal of collecting 48 donors.

“It has been such a blessing,” she said. “We have been connected with people who want to rally behind us.”

For Michelle, hosting a blood drive is deeply personal. “After being a blood survivor, there is no price you can put on someone’s life,” she said. She hopes that everyone who walks in the door leaves with a better understanding of how urgently blood is needed. “I did not understand the shortage until I needed it,” she added.

Her message to the community is simple. “It could be you,” Michelle said. “You never know when you or someone you love will need blood. I never thought I would. Donors saved my life. You can save someone else.”

Michelle and Kojo invite the community to celebrate life and give the gift that saved hers.
Donate at their family hosted Red Cross blood drive on January 24 and help ensure blood is there for the next person who needs it most. To make an appointment to donate blood click here!