Thomas Thompson of Virgie was attending a Pike County American Cancer Society Relay For Life event in support of a co-worker who had been diagnosed with cancer. During the event, he noticed a KBC bloodmobile.

“I didn’t even know my blood type. But I got the courage up, walked into that bus, and let them stick a needle in my arm. It felt amazing knowing I helped a stranger.”

Once he was eligible again, he scheduled another donation at Pikeville Donor Center. Afterward, a KBC staff member asked if he had ever considered donating platelets. He said he hadn’t but that he would next time. That was eight years ago, and Thomas has been a frequent platelet donor ever since.

“It’s an honor for me to help others fight their battle. And I will keep donating until the day I can no longer do so.”

Thomas Thompson, Platelet and blood donor