I am Luci Takas. I am 17 years old. I was diagnosed with aplastic anemia last in the spring of 2017. Aplastic anemia is bone marrow failure where red blood cells (carry oxygen), platelets (clot blood) and white blood cells (fight infection) stop being produced. I received a blood and or platelet transfusion every 2-3 days at Roswell Park. These blood and platelet transfusion were life saving. When my red blood cell level was low I would feel extremely fatigued and would be out of breath going up a flight of stairs, after receiving a transfusion I was able to swim or go on a bike ride. When my platelets were low I would have terrible bruises. After a transfusion I had peace of mind that if I scraped my knee I would have enough platelets to stop the bleeding. The transfusion I received at Roswell allowed me to continue to do the things I love. I am so excited to be part of the Ride for Roswell this year. Please consider making an appointment to donate blood or platelets and make a donation to help me reach my fundraising goal. Thank You!!