Close to Home

In real estate, we talk a lot about what makes a place feel like home. For me, so much of that comes down to community. It’s knowing your neighbors will show up for one another and that when something goes wrong, there are people willing to help.

As an EMT/Firefighter with the Standish Fire Department, I see that kind of support firsthand. But long before serving my own community in this role, my family experienced just how powerful it can be.

On October 6, 2016, my brother JJ was involved in a devastating work accident while working as an arborist in Bridgton.

What followed was an extraordinary effort by first responders, medical teams, blood donors, and complete strangers who all played a part in saving his life.

That number has stayed with us. Those 126 units represent people we will likely never meet who took the time to donate blood. They could not have known who would receive it or how desperately it would be needed. But when JJ needed it, it was there.

Over the months that followed, JJ underwent 27 surgeries, spent more than three months in the hospital, and faced the life-changing loss of his right leg. His recovery was long, but he was given the opportunity to recover because so many people showed up for him, including 126 blood donors who had given before they ever knew his name.

Blood donation can feel like a small act. To the person who needs it, it can mean everything.

Our family knows firsthand what it means to have blood available in a moment when there is no time to wait. Every person who donates has the opportunity to give someone else what those donors gave JJ: another chance.

I hope you’ll consider joining us this October and helping us reach 126 donors.