Lucy Beck’s courage is bound in blood to donors

LUCY Beck thought it was a “bit freaky” to be getting someone else’s blood — she eventually received more than the average adult has in their entire body.

LUCY Beck thought it was a “bit freaky” to be getting someone else’s blood — she eventually received more than the average adult has in their entire body.

The generosity of strangers proved a lifesaver as the Golden Grove youngster fought back from a brain tumour.

Lucy was just seven when diagnosed with a tumour about the size of an eyeball and three days later was in surgery having it removed.

What followed over the course of 2007-08 would be tough for a grown man, let alone a little girl — six weeks of radiotherapy and 56 weeks of chemotherapy.

In that time, she needed regular blood transfusions and platelets, totalling around 5.6 litres. The average adult body contains about 5 litres.

Lucy kept up her studies and has managed to stay in the same class at Pedare Catholic College with the support of her classmates and school.

Now aged 13 and in Year 8, Lucy is healthy although she injects herself with growth hormones each month to help make up for growth lost due to the radiotherapy on her brain and spine.

Regular checks have shown no sign of the tumour returning and Lucy will continue to have checks until she is 18.

Parents Jodie and Stuart are eternally grateful for blood donors who helped Lucy through a tough time.

“She thought it was a bit freaky to be getting a stranger’s blood so because we are the same blood type — O positive — I became a blood donor so she could take comfort in thinking she was getting mine,” Mrs Beck said.

“I still donate every 12 weeks and would encourage others to do the same; it really can be a lifesaver.”

Mrs Beck is so proud of her daughter’s grit in keeping up her studies and her good spirits while dealing with debilitating health challenges she has nominated her for a Pride of Australia Medal in the Child of Courage category.

Nominations to recognise a local hero in 10 categories covering areas such as community service, bravery, volunteer work, compassion and the environment close on Sunday.

To nominate, go to advertiser.com.au/prideofaustralia.

This is National Blood Donor Week and the Australian Red Cross Blood Service is thanking donors as well as urging more people to volunteer.

Blood Service spokeswoman Emma Schreiber said every blood donation helped to save three lives but the overall impact reached much further.

“A donation of blood has a ripple effect, from the person receiving the blood, right through to their family and their friends,” she said.

“Surgical patients, new mothers and people with cancer all rely on blood donations.”

To donate call 131 495 or see donateblood.com.au