WEBSTER CITY, Iowa — An Iowa woman whose life was saved by blood donations had a special Valentine’s Day reunion with the very people who donated.

In 2021 Beth Ades was diagnosed with Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS), which is a serious blood disorder. As a result, Ades had to undergo multiple stem cell transplants and blood transfusions before receiving a bone marrow transplant. Now, Ades says she’s thriving and is celebrating the blood donors who helped save her life.

On Friday, in partnership with LifeServe Blood Center, Beth’s 3rd ReBirthday Bash Blood Drive took place at P&P Electric in Webster City. In attendance were the very people who donated the blood that then went to saving Ades’ life.

Both Ades and one of the donors said the reunion was an incredible experience.

“It was incredible. I’ve been looking forward to this day for so long, and I couldn’t hold it together I was a mess, lots of crying and hugs, but they’re forever apart of me. They’re a huge part of the reason that I’m alive and I’m here today,” Ades said.

“It gives a face to a receiver. I donate to try and help people and everything and by meeting Beth it makes me feel good, like I’m doing something,” James Henning said, who donated platelets.

If you’d like to sign up to donate blood you can do so by visiting LifeServe’s website.

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