Be a Hero:BDM

Importance of Blood Donation and the University of Wisconsin-Parkside

2009-05-11T14:33:00.003-05:00

Hello Everyone!!

We hope that you are all doing well. I am working on a project for the University of Wisconsin-Parkside that will benefit the Blood Center of Wisconsin greatly. This project and research has been completed by myself and Dave Gouge.

We have studied the importance of the marketing and business management skills that Blood Center of Wisconsin is currently using with their website and have taken this opportunity to put into use our skills learned here at the university. This opporunity has helped us to enhance this website to be mmore user friendly and connect you more to what you the viewers would like to learn about Blood Center of Wisconsin.

Please find the links scetion of this homepage: Access to Blood Center of Wisconsin's website homepage as well as access to news and events regarding Blood Center of Wisconsin.

We hope that these changes are benefical to you and most importantly bring benefits to our partner, Blood Center of Wisconsin. Please remember the importance of Blood Donation and encourgae those around you to donate as well. 1 in 3 people will need a blood transfusion in their lifetime however only 5% if the eligible donation population donate their blood; with your help, donation and dedication we hope to see a change in this statistic.

Sorry It's Been So Long

2007-06-20T21:39:00.000-05:00

I apologize that I went the month of May without posting information. I have been making so many appearances as well as our computer is down at home. Enough with excuses though, I want to get you back up to speed!!
May 3rd, the day after my birthday, I tried to donate platelets, and the reason I say tried is because I couldn't finish my donation due to complications. I had a bruise on my arms for 2 1/2 weeks from the complications. It was not pretty!! However, with all the trouble came good because I signed up to be a bone marrow donor if need be ever!
May 20th was a benefit for Brittany Michna(She is doing much better and is out of the hospital at this time). It was so wonderful to meet all of Brittany's family and friends as well as spend more time with Brittany. She had a lot of fun and even got to try on my crown and banner once again. It was a great day.
At the end of May I had two blood drives that I attended: one for Johnson's Financial, and the other for IRIS USA. Both drives went exceptionally well. I meeting new people, as well as seeing old faces. It is always a joy to share my stories, and journey with others.
Last week was also busy for me as I traveled to Children's Hospital to visit a young girl from Appleton who had had a bicycle accident. She was a very sweet girl who I enjoyed meeting and spending time with.
On Friday night I attended Relay For Life(a walk for cancer) for the 1st time and was in total amazement by the positive vibes that were in the location. Cancer battlers and survivors attended the event which lasted Friday night into Saturday morning. I had the opportunity to once agian speak with others on the importance of my platform, and relate it back to what everyone there felt so strongly about. Nearly everyone indivdiual with cancer will receieve a blood transfusion during some point of their journey; I felt honored to be connected to such a special program by my platform.
Now I look forward to sharing the improtance of blood donation the judges and audience at the Miss Wisconsin Pageant next week.

Thank you all for your support! Remember to keep making a difference in the lives of others.

How Time Does Fly!

2007-04-09T16:54:00.000-05:00

Wow! I apologize that it has taken me so long to post another message. I have been so busy with blood drives and Miss Racine activities lately and have had problems accessing this site. I hope all is well!
Since the last time I blogged I have taken part in over 4 blood drives including those at Walden III High School, Johnson Finanicial Group, and University of Wisconsin Parkside.
I also had the opportunity to attend Children's Hospital in Milwaukee and view the blood transfusion services room. It was a room where all the blood donations done through the Blood Center of Wisconsin were stored until use. The gentlemen who was given us the tour said that the maxium number of days that a bag of blood is kept there is 14 days before the "gift" is given to a patient. Neat! I told you all you are heroes.
I am also honored to say that this weekend, I conquered one of my fears and donated platelets for the first time. It was an amazing experience that I plan to contine taking part in. For those of you who are unaware of the difference between donating whole blood and platelets, I will explain. When whole blood is donated, a little of everything is given with your donation: red and white blood cells, platelets, and plasma. When donating platelets, platelets are exactly what is being donated. Platelets help especially used for those who have cancer and are undergoing chemotherapy. When donating whole blood, the donation process takes 10-12 minutes, whereas the donation process of platelets can take 1 hour to one and a half hours. For more information on this please email me at missracine2007@yahoo.com or you can contact the Blood Center of Wisconsin (please click on the link located on the right side of your screen).
This is what has been taking place all in a nut shell. I hope to be able to upload a new slideshow later tonight if my computer allows. Thank you for all of your support.
REMEMBER TO BE A HERO!

Johnson Financial Blood Drive

2007-01-14T09:52:00.000-06:00

On Friday January 12th I attended another blood drive that was put together by Daphne Ursu of Johnson Financial. I was asked to attend the event as a special guest and once again enjoyed talking about the importance of blood donation.

I presented a video which Jim Yee hopes can be used by the Blood Center of Wisconsin at blood drives all over the state.
My sister donated blood for the first time on Friday. I am so proud of her and all the other individuals who found the hero within themselves to donate blood.

Holiday from the Heart Blood Drive

2006-12-29T17:04:00.000-06:00

I had a wonderful time at the Holiday from the Heart Blood Drive. The drive was held at the Milwaukee County Zoo and the Blood Center of Wisconsin hoped to see 500+ donors. The atmosphere was overwhelming! I spoke to so many people both donors and their families. It was so interesting to hear all of the stories about why people decided to donate blood, how long they have donated, and how important blood donation is. I spent 3 hours at the drive, and the slideshow above shows me with Jim Yee, children, and volunteers. Unforunately I was unable to take photos with the donors while they were donating because of how busy that area was. I am so honored to have been given the opportunity to attend the event and hope you enjoy the pictures. My next blood drive will be January 12th at Johnson Finanicial here in Racine. Please keep checking for updates.

WHAT WILL YOUR NEW YEARS RESOLUTION BE? DON'T KNOW YET? I HAVE A CHALLENGE FOR YOU. I CHALLENGE YOU TO FIND THE HERO WITHIN YOURSELF THIS UPCOMING YEAR! BECOME A HERO IN 2007. MAKE A DIFFERENCE BY SAVING A LIFE THROUGH BLOOD DONATION!

Miss Racine to Attend the Blood Center of Wisconsin's Holiday from the Heart Blood Drive

2006-12-21T10:05:00.000-06:00

Britani Madala, Miss Racine, will be greeting donors at the sixth annual Holiday from the Heart blood drive on Friday, December 29, from 11am-1pm. Miss Milwaukee ,Janel Mayer, will be greeting as well. The drive is being held in the Peck Welcome Center at the Milwaukee County Zoo, 10001 W. Bluemound Rd.
Blood Center's goal is to see over 500 donors and collect over 400 pints of blood at the Holiday from the Heart drive. All attempting donors will recieve free parking and admission to the Milwaukee County Zoo on the day of the drive. In addition, they will be given a voucher good for one admission during a future visit to the zoo.Anyone who is at least 17 years old, weighs a minimum of 110 pounds, and is generally good health can donate blood. The entire process takes about an hour and all blood types are needed. Donors should bring a photo ID.
Blood Center of Wisconsin is the sole supplier of blood and blood products to 55 Wisconsin hospitals in 28 counties. It is commited to advancing patient care by delivering life-saving solutions grounded in unparalleled medical and scientific expertise.
Please contact Britani if you need any other information at madal002@uwp.edu OR contact Crytsal McNeal from the Blood Center of Wisconsin at (414)937-6124

GIVE THE GIFT OF LIFE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

UW-Parkside Blood Drive

2006-12-07T22:06:00.000-06:00

On the 4th of December I took the time to get involved with one of the University of Wisconsin-Parkside's activities: a blood drive. Being so passionate for the cause, I was ready and willing to help make a difference. As most of you know, I was scheduled to donate blood to the U.S. troops at Great Lakes Naval Base; however I was sick that day making me ineligable to donate.
Donating at Parkside was a great experience...except for the part when I felt a little light headed. There were many wonderful people there to make me feel comfortable and helped me to feel better in a short amount of time.
Have you donated blood lately? Give the gift of life this holiday season. Challenge yourself and those around you to make a difference. Challenge yourself to be a hero!

Happy Holidays!

3 Blood Drives in One Week

2006-11-17T19:35:00.000-06:00

Wow! My first week working with my platform as Miss Racine has been very busy. I attended 3 blood drives this week; 2 just in one day!! However, the busy schedule was well with the time spent with heroes. I attended blood drives at Johnson Financial Bank, St. Lucy's School, and Iris USA. It was a wonderful opportunity for me to share my stories, and hear other people's experiences. I had the chance to spend time with a veteran at St. Lucy's School who said that he has donated over 9 gallons of blood. What an accomplishment!

The words of encouragement and support will stay with me forever. I held the hands of many who were nervous, or it was their first time donating. The memories made and knowledge gained will stay with me forever. I look forward to my journey that still awaits me. I know that I am making a difference, and it is clearer to me know more than ever.

Miss Racine 2007

2006-11-17T19:26:00.000-06:00

I have good news. On the 11th of November I competed for the title of Miss Rcaine 2007 and won!! At the pageant I had the opportunity to talk about my platform, Be a Hero:BDM, and the importance of blood donation. It was an honor to have Trevon and his family attend the pageant. Trevon knows on a personal level how important blood donations are, and his story is one that helps me to encourage others to donate. It is my duty to represent Racine at the Miss Wisconsin Pageant, be the Goodwill Ambassador for Racine over the next year, and continue to make an impactt on the lives of others with my platform.

In the Upcoming Days

2006-11-06T21:29:00.000-06:00

I wanted to make you all aware of the things that I will be taking part in during the week to promote and educate others on the importance of blood donation.
On Thursday I will be traveling to Pleasant Prairie to encourage employees of Iris to take part in the blood drive that will be taking place there next week. I am challenging myself to convince individuals who have never donated their blood before to do so, and those who have donated to continue being a hero in the lives of others. Some of the things that I will be doing are telling stories that I have heard from the many people I have encountered through my involvement with the Blood Center as well as give statistics, donation information, and answer any questions that people may have.
On Saturday, I will be promoting my program Be a Hero: BDM as I compete for the title of Miss Racine 2007. All eleven contestants participating in the pageant are required to give the judges a paper that explains the issue that they plan to focus on during their year of service if selected Miss Racine as well as all of their accomplishments with their platform thus far. I want to say thank you to all of you who have helped me spread my platform Be a Hero: BDM and for all of the support you have shown to me along my journey. I hope to represent my program and make the judges see how very dedicated I am, and make the Blood Center of Wisconsin, blood transfusions recipients, and all of you very proud! I am honored to say that Trevon and his family will be attending the pageant on Saturday to support me.
I am so very grateful for the experiences that I have been blessed with, and the road that my program has taken me down. I look forward to the challenges that are ahead of me, and I will be sure to keep you all updated.
Have a great week everyone!

PS. I wanted to share this picture with all of you. This picture was taken at my dog Banche's gravesite on the one-year annivesary of his death (The puppy in my arms is Payton, our new German Shepard). For those of you who are unaware, Banche is a huge part of why the program Be a Hero: BDM was created. One year ago Banche passed away due to anemia. My family and I were told that Banche needed a full blood transfusion. I wanted to be his hero; I wanted to save his life. However, humans can not donate blood to animals. This brought the question to my mind: if people would do anything to save their pet's life, why do not more people donate blood to save other human lives?
That is one reason why Be a Hero: BDM was created, and so this picture is a reminder of what I have accomplished with my program since Banche's death. Banche may be no longer be with me physically, but he will forever live on in the hearts of those who hear his story.

Donating blood to my heroes...

2006-11-02T10:04:00.000-06:00

On November 27th I will be traveling to Great Lakes Naval Base in IL to donate blood to my heroes...the U.S. troops. I am honored to have an opportunity such as this and can not wait to share my experience with all of you. I will keep you updated.
I think that this is a wonderful way to show my thankfulness to them!

Finally! Here is the Picture of Trevon, Kayla, and Kayla's Brother

2006-10-25T20:08:00.000-05:00

I apologize that it took me so long to post this picture from the Blood Center of Wisconsin's Recoginition Event. I would like you to meet Kalya and Trevon who both have sickle cell anemia. Kayla is 4-years-old, and Trevon is in 6th grade. Both children are full of life, and it was a pleasure to get to know them as well as their families. Kayla and Trevon both recieve blood frequently, and are very appreciative for the people they know as heroes. Thank you to all of the people who help to make a difference, nomatter what the way, through the Blood Center of Wisconsin. Kayla and Trevon are just two people who are living proof that blood donation matters!

(From Left to Right: Kayla's brother, me, Kayla, and Trevon. Sorry that the picture is blurry)

Blood Drive in Mid-November!!

2006-10-18T21:41:00.000-05:00

I wanted to make you all aware that I will be helping out the company Iris, which is located in Pleasant Prarie, Wisconsin. They will be holding a blood drive in mid-November and have asked me to spread the word about the drive (as well as the importance of blood donation), and to help out at the blood drive itself. If you would like more information on how you can help make a difference in the lives of others, please email me at madal002@uwp.edu
I will post a specific date a.s.a.p.

The money has been sent!

2006-10-12T10:02:00.000-05:00

Today, I sent a letter to the Blood Center of Wisconsin which talked about the 1st Annual Run/Walk. We sent all of the money raised as well. A HUGE thank you to everyone once again who participated in or supported the Be a Hero:Run for Awareness event. You are a livesaver!

P.S. If you are having problems viewing the slideshow beneath, click on the box area of where the slideshow should be and it should appear. If you are still having problems please email me at madal002@uwp.edu

CONTINUE TO BE A HERO IN THE EYES OF OTHERS

I created a Slide Show! Check it out!

2006-10-06T19:03:00.000-05:00

1st Annual Be a Hero: Run for Awareness Run/Walk

2006-09-23T14:05:00.000-05:00

Today was the day that I have have waited for for the past 2 months. Today the 1st Annual Be a Hero: Run for Awareness 2 Mile Run/Walk took place at Armstrong Park here in Racine. The run/walk was very enjoyable and I can not wait to start planning next year's event.

Thankfully, God blessed us with no rain, and comfortable weather. We had less participants then we would have liked but we raised more more than I had ever drempt of for it being the 1st year. Be a Hero: BDM raised close to $1,000 for the Blood Center of Wisconsin(In the following pictures you will see that the check says $844, however the EMT's at the run/walk and other individuals donated money after that).

It was an honor to have Miss Lakeshore 2006, Melissa Hinshaw and the Caledonia EMT's attend the event. Having support from a community representative, and local heroes was indescribable.

I would like to thank everyone who attended the run/walk, donated their time or money to help me accomplish this dream of mine, and my community for believing in me. A special thank you is given to my family for traveling this amazing new journey with me, and for making blood donation awareness a huge part of your life as well.

Two of the most memorable moments of this journey have been:
1. Walking/running next to people who are helping me to spread
awareness that blood donation IS important.
2. Recieving a text message from my close friend after the run/walk
was over that read, " I hope you had a good time this morning; I know
I did. I am so proud of you for doing this. You have saved so many
lives and I respect you for that"

If you are interested in participating in next year's run/walk please email me for information at madal002@uwp.edu If you are interested in donating money to the Blood Center of Wisconsin through my program Be a Hero:BDM please email me at the address listed above.

One of the simple thank yous given at the run/walk were life savers with a note attached. the note said: Thank you from Be a Hero:BDM, 1st Annual Be a Hero: Run for Awareness, You are a "life saver"

Blood donation is so important...please find the "hero" in yourself.

Blood Center of Wisconsin Recognition Event

2006-09-23T13:55:00.000-05:00

Hello Everyone!

On September 9th, I was honored to be asked to attend the 2006 Blood Center of Wisconsin Recognition Event. The event was held at the Milwaukee Brewers stadium, and followed by a Brewer's game againest the Huston Astros. At the event, I had the pleasure of meeting 2 young individuals-Trevon and Kayla-who have sickle cell anemia. They both recieve blood transfusion on a regular basis, but yet were 2 of the happiest people I have ever met. It was wonderful to meet both of them who are living proof that blood donation matters.
I also met Jacki, the CEO of the Blood Center of Wisconsin. I enjoyed every second I was given to tell her about the role blood donation plays in my life, and about my program.

Please look in the near future for pictures of me with the three of them.

Working on the Brochures

2006-08-25T17:47:00.000-05:00

Hello Everyone,

I have been working very hard on the brochures; I passed out 50 Brochures in 1 day!! Today, my close friend helped me make, fold, and stuff 75 more. We are off to a great start spreading the word about the 1st Annual Blood Donation Awareness Run/Walk. I am so excited to be traveling this special journey in my life of promoting one of my greatest passions. I would like to thank Adam and my mom for all the help they have given me, as well as all my family and friends for supporting me as I take on his new experience which is so dear to my heart.

A special congratulations to my mom! She was the first person to officially sign up for the run/walk and has already raised donations for the Blood Center of Wisconsin. Good job Mom, and thank you for your support and sincere dedication to help me reach my dreams.

If you have any questions regarding the run/walk or how you can help please feel free to contact me at madal002@uwp.edu

Be a Hero:Run for Awareness Brochure

2006-08-23T11:40:00.000-05:00

Schedule of Events

7:30 am Registration

8:00 am Opening Ceremonies

8:15 am 2 Mile Run/Walk Begins

After the run/walk is complete awards will be given to the top male and female overall runner finishers. Awards will be given in the following age divisions:10 and under, 11-15, 16-19, 20-35, 36-49, 50 and over.

For directions to Armstrong Park, please visit www.beaherobdm.blogspot.com

Parking is available at Armstrong Park, and will be directed for the run/walk.

Send to:
Britani Madala
5801 Charles St.
Racine, WI 53402

262-639-2501

1st Annual
Be a Hero: Run for Awareness

September 23, 2006
Armstrong Park
Racine, Wisconsin

Organized to benefit blood donation awareness, the Blood Center of Wisconsin, and Be a Hero: BDM

Donations Make the Difference
Be a Hero: Run for Awareness 2006-Pledge Form

Name:________________________________

Address:______________________________
City/State/Zip:________________________________

Phone: (______)_________________ Age:_______
Sponsor’s Name Sponsor’s Phone Number Total Amt. Amount Received
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.

Participants must turn in their donations and this form at the run/walk on September 23rd.

All proceeds will benefit the Blood Center of Wisconsin.

Be a Hero: BDM
Hello. My name is Britani Madala, and one of my greatest passions is blood donation awareness as well as blood donation itself.
Blood donation awareness is a passion of mine for a few reasons; One of my childhood friends, Alex Olson, died last March due to Leukemia. Alex had to go through many blood transfusions and bone marrow transplants. Alex has passed away, although his life was prolonged due to the many people Alex considered heroes: those who donated blood and/or marrow to a complete stranger. Alex made me realize how important blood donation is. In fact one in three people will need a blood transfusion in their lifetime, and every three seconds a blood transfusion is being performed.
Another reason I promote blood donation is because my 4 month old puppy suddenly became anemic. I asked the veterinarian before my puppy died if a human could donate their blood to an animal; her response was no. I began to wonder: if people are willing to do whatever they can to save a pet’s life, why aren’t more people worried about saving other human lives?
One of our family friends, who will be participating in the run/walk has breast cancer, and now has a port inside of her chest to make her many blood transfusions easier so that her arms do not bruise. These are just a few reasons I strive to promote blood donation awareness, as well as blood donation itself.
Last August, I started the program Be a Hero: BDM which works with the Blood Center of Wisconsin to promote blood donation awareness. I help to organize blood drives and help people conquer their fears of donating blood. I enjoy telling stories such as the ones above to help in making people aware of how important blood donation is, as well as, the difference it can make in people’s lives.
Be a Hero: Run for Awareness has been created with the goal to raise money for the Blood Center of Wisconsin and also raise awareness on the importance of blood donation. I am striving to reach these goals with your help. Your participation and pledges ensure growing support for blood donation, and those thankful patients receiving the blood transfusions. This walk is giving both those who are eligible, and those who are not the opportunity to come together, stand strong, and spread the word that blood donation matters.
For more information visit www.beaherobdm.blogspot.com, www.bloodcenter.com or email Britani at madal002@uwp.edu

Registration Form

Name:_________________________________Address:_______________________________
City:______________________ State:________ Zip:_____________
Phone: (______)_____________

• I have had a blood transfusion.

Check One:
• 2 Mile Run
• 2 Mile Walk (Walkers will not be timed.)

Sex and Age
• Male
• Female
Age on 9/23/06: _______

Run and Walk Fees
Please circle- Pre-Race Day Race Day
Adult $15/each $17/each
Child(under 18 yrs.) $10/each $12/each

Payment Method

Total Amount Enclosed $______________
• Check
• Cash

I am unable to participate, but I would like to make a donation of $__________.
(Make check payable to the Blood Center of Wisconsin)

Make checks payable to the Blood Center of Wisconsin and mail to: Britani Madala, 5801 Charles St. Racine, WI 53402

Waiver must be signed in order to participate.
Waiver: I hereby release Armstrong Park, Blood Center of Wisconsin, Be a Hero: BDM, all sponsors, officials, and volunteers involved in the race from liability incurred by my participation in this event. I grant permission for the organizer to use all photographs or any other record of this event for any legitimate purpose. Participants under the age of 18 years of age must have a waiver signed by a parent or guardian. Participants under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

_____________________________________________
Signature of Entrant Date

______________________________________________________
Signature of Parent or Legal Guardian if under 18 Date

August 4th Blood Donation

2006-08-04T12:57:00.000-05:00

Hello Everyone!
I just got home from the Racine Blood Center. Once again, the experience of donating was overwhelming. I love donating my blood because I know the impact it has has the lifes of complete strangers as well as the impact in leaves in my heart. I know that I have helped to save or prolong a life. I always try to think of new ways that I can make a difference in the world; I always seem to forget that I don't need to stress myself out about making a difference in the world because I am making a world of difference in people's lifes already.
I hope you enjoy the pictures taken today. I love the one of me holding the bag of my blood. The nurse said, " Hold the bag like you are advertising a product" and laughed, when in all reality (if you think about it) I am advertising something. I am advertising the chance of a lifetime; I am advertising the chance and opportunity of becoming or continuing to be a hero!

Be a Hero:BDM (Blood Donation Matters)

Be a Hero: BDM Blood Drive Pictures

2006-08-03T22:46:00.000-05:00

Hello once again! I wanted to post a few pictures from aprevious blood drive I had organized. This blood drive took place on St. Patrick's Day! I enjoyed working with the staff from the Blood Center of Wisconsin, and appreciate everything they do. I am scheduled to donate blood tomorrow, and am organizing another blood drive for early October. Please visit the website frequently to look for updates on events.

2006-08-01T22:05:00.000-05:00

Thank you for visiting my website to help bring awareness to the importance of blood donation. As I said previously, blood donation is one of my greatest passions. To have the support of others from our community, and state, as well as others places from around the nation means the world to me.

I believe that all things are possible through the Lord, and with perstisitance; I strongly believe that educating others on an issue with so much importance is a challenge that God has given me to conquer. I feel so blessed that I have been given the opportunity to make such a difference in the lives of others.

I now ask you to take on a new challenge: donate blood, join the 1st Annual Be a Hero: Run for Awareness 2 Mile Run/Walk, spread the word about blood donation importance . In the end I grauntee you that you will have a satisfying feeling that you have made a difference and that you are a hero in the eyes of complete stranger.

Directions to Armstrong Park

2006-08-01T19:23:00.000-05:00

Here is information about the park where the run/walk will take place.

Armstrong Park's Address:

3901 Hwy. 31
P.O. Box 654
Racine, WI
53402

The park is located between 4 Mile Rd. and Hwy. 38 across from Grace Chruch. There will be people who will direct you where to park once you arrive at the park.

*Please check back for directions fromMilwaukee, and the Chicago area.

2006-07-31T20:15:00.000-05:00

Hello Everyone!

I am happy to announce that on Saturday, September 23rd the 1st Annual Be a Hero: Run for Awareness 2 Mile Run/Walk will be taking place here in Racine. I am striving to bring the community together in away like no other; I am striving to bring awareness to Racine that blood donation is so important. If you would like more information on this event please email me at madal002@uwp.edu
I challenge you now to Be a Hero and run for awareness.

2006-07-11T21:13:00.000-05:00

Hello!
My name is Britani, and one of my greatest passions is blood donation awareness. In August 2005, I created the program Be a Hero:BDM which helps to educate people, and provide awareness on the importance of blood donation. I have encouraged people to find the courage within themself to donate blood, and I hope the program can do the same for you.