I started donating plasma in February of 2018, only 2 years after being diagnosed with red cell antibodies (anti-fya). After hearing about access clinical through a support group, the process to start donating was incredibly easy. My first phone call led to a free lab test to confirm my diagnosis and then I just had to pick when would be convenient for me to travel and donate. Initially I was concerned about leaving my 1.5 year old son because most donors stay for 3 days however I was given the option to fly, donate, and fly home in the same day because of the frequency of flights from my airport in Atlanta. Anytime I arrive in Indianapolis to donate, I am welcomed by my driver, Jimmy, who takes me straight to the donor center. The staff is always friendly and they do their best to take me right back so that I can make my return flight. It often amazes people that I can catch a 7:30am flight, donate, fly home, and be back to my house by 2:30pm. Now I donate once or twice a week with all travel expenses paid for in addition to my compensation for donation. I even get to keep my sky miles!

This opportunity has been such a blessing for my family. I’m able to afford the life style I want, help others through my donation, and find a positive side effect of my condition of which I would not wish on anyone. Being a naturally outgoing person, I have also gained more opportunity to educate others about my rare antibodies as well as find others who have similar conditions. I have already been able to refer people and be compensated for it. It is my hope to find as many potential donors as I can so that they may enjoy the same opportunities I have been given. I also never need to worry if I choose not to donate because I’m not locked in to anything. Once I even woke up on a donation day with a stomach bug and it was no trouble at all to postpone my trip. Access Clinical really does their best to be so accommodating!

If you are considering donating, I would highly encourage it. Nathalie and Robert are very easy to work with and have helped in any way they could to make the process simple and stress free. I hope to be a lifelong participant.