08/10/2026
You may hear about local blood drives - maybe even donate yourself - but do you ever wonder who actually gets your blood? Who benefits from your selfless life-saving act?
Many IFG Insurance employees have been regular donors for years. One is even a proud 10 gallon donor! We are lucky that LifeServe Blood Center has a donation event near our Winterset, Iowa location at least once a month and makes it very easy to donate.
We have an increased motivation to donate. A member of our IFG family, Taylor Black's daughter Saylor is our very sweet reason. We share this with you today to recognize the importance of regular donations, as well as the wonderful feeling of gratitude and pride that comes with it!
Saylor’s Journey ❤️
For the past year, we have been doing blood transfusions every few weeks to keep Saylor’s hemoglobin stable. She has Diamond Blackfan Anemia (DBA), a rare bone marrow disorder that prevents her body from producing red blood cells. This past year has been filled with long nights, hospital stays, countless appointments, and constant worry.
We are a little more than 2 months into Saylor’s steroid trial. She takes steroids every day in hopes of reducing her need for blood transfusions and encouraging her body to produce red blood cells on her own. While we are hopeful, this trial comes with many unknowns. High-dose steroids in infants can cause a variety of side effects, so we will be closely monitoring her hemoglobin, blood pressure, and blood sugar. Some of the more common side effects include behavioral changes and sleep disturbances.
We are incredibly grateful for everyone who has prayed for Saylor and supported our family throughout this journey. I pray every day that God will heal my sweet baby girl. As we take this next step, we would appreciate it if you would continue to keep Saylor in your thoughts and prayers.
Saylor Jo is the strongest little girl I know. She is a fighter, and she continues to amaze me every single day. We are so proud of her and grateful to be her parents.
