Carter’s Journey: How Blood Donations Help Kids Keep Being Kids
- NEIA Red Cross
- 30 minutes ago
- 3 min read
By Rachelle Lipker
Carter Gustin is a 14-year-old who embodies the spirit of a typical teenager—active, social, and deeply passionate about sports. Before his diagnosis, he was almost always outside, moving from one activity to the next. He loves being with friends, competing in sports, and would rarely spend time sitting still. A true multi-sport athlete, Gustin loves participating in baseball, basketball, wrestling, golf, football and track.
Gustin’s health journey began with persistent leg pain that was initially believed to be growing pains or a pulled groin from baseball. After visits to urgent care and his family doctor, blood work showed some abnormalities, but nothing that raised immediate concern. The pain continued and began to shift sides.
A bone marrow biopsy confirmed Gustin's diagnosis, B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Gustin and his family met with the oncology team when they determined the next step would be to have a port placed and to begin treatment. The family spent the next ten days in Children’s Hospital coming to terms with a long and challenging road ahead. While overwhelmed, they were encouraged to learn that Gustin’s prognosis was expected to be good.
Gustin’s treatment plan spans eight phases over several years, with more intensive treatments continuing through the summer of 2026. He has had to step away from football and wrestling—a difficult adjustment for a young man who thrives on constant movement and competition—but he continues to face these changes with humor and resilience, determined to return to the baseball field.
One of the most critical components of Gustin’s care has been blood and platelet transfusions. After receiving donated blood products, Gustin experienced a dramatic increase in energy—enough to ride his bike multiple miles with friends. His parents watched the transformation firsthand and were reminded just how vital blood donors are to children like Gustin.
Gustin has a simple message for donors:“It helps a lot more than you think it does.”
Life looks a little different now. Since starting treatment, he spends more time resting and has discovered a new appreciation for his Xbox. Treatment and growth spurts have increased his appetite, and he especially enjoys stopping at HuHot Mongolian Grill when in Omaha. These shifts are small reminders of how treatment reshapes daily life, even outside the hospital walls.
Throughout his journey, Gustin’s family, including his younger brother, Colton, has provided unwavering support. They have navigated hospital stays, travel and the emotional weight of treatment while doing everything possible to maintain a sense of normalcy. Gustin was in the hospital during the College World Series, but just days after being discharged, he returned to the field to pitch with his team in their state tournament the following weekend. The family continues to celebrate milestones and enjoy outdoor activities like fishing at the lake, riding four-wheelers and spending time with friends whenever possible.
Described by his mom and dad as a “fun-loving dude who loves life,” Gustin’s journey has reshaped how his family views blood donation. What was once an abstract need is now deeply personal. Blood donations are not optional; they are essential, lifesaving and ongoing throughout pediatric cancer treatment.
Gustin’s treatment is expected to conclude on October 21, 2027. Until then, he will continue to rely on the generosity of blood donors to give him the strength to heal, grow and keep being a kid.
Gustin’s story is one of resilience, hope and the extraordinary power of community. By donating blood, you are giving children like Gustin the chance to adapt, recover and continue finding joy—whether that’s on a bike, at the lake or someday back on the field.
Your donation is more than blood—it’s life. This holiday season your blood donation can bring a patient in need comfort and hope – gifts more meaningful than anything found in a store or purchased online. Make your appointment to donate at redcrossblood.org.