Grandmother Inspires Life-saving Journey

Campbell Boswell and Grandmother, Vickie Thedford

Campbell Boswell, an 18-year-old resident of Dyersburg, Tennessee, recently began a life-saving journey inspired by her grandmother, Vickie Thedford. Vickie is a dedicated blood donor with LIFELINE Blood Services who displays her milestone certificates proudly across her home. This instilled in Campbell the importance of giving back through blood donation from a young age. 

"I have always kept my certificate of hitting a milestone of blood donations on my refrigerator from the first certificate I received," Vickie shared. "My grandchildren have always seen them... they all knew that I was a donor." 

Vickie's stories about how blood donations saved lives left a lasting impression on Campbell. "When Campbell sent me the picture of her first donation, I was thrilled beyond words," Vickie recalled. 

Campbell understands the great importance of donating blood and encourages others to give the gift of life. "If someone is apprehensive about donating blood, I would tell them that they could save a life," Campbell remarked. "We never know if it will be our friends, family, or even ourselves in need of blood." 

Her first donation experience at the LIFELINE Blood Services in Dyersburg was reassuring and positive. "The staff was friendly, made me feel comfortable, and checked on me constantly," Campbell recalled. "It is comforting to know that your decision can make such a big impact on others!" 

Campbell, who recently graduated from Dyersburg High School and will be attending The University of Tennessee at Martin, encourages others her age to consider donating. "It is a good way we can give back to people of all ages," she says.  

In Vickie's words, "Giving blood is a simple act that leaves a big impact." Campbell's journey exemplifies how a single decision can resonate far beyond oneself, providing hope and health to those in need. 

LIFELINE Blood Services is located at 1130 HWY 51 Bypass Suite 19 and 20 in Dyersburg, TN. Visit lifelinebloodserv.org for more information or follow LIFELINE on social media. Their current promotion is the biggest one of the year: all donors, 18 years of age and up, can donate and enter to win the 2022 Ford Bronco Sport, donated by Joe Mahan Ford. This 6th Annual Car Giveaway wraps up Labor Day!