Ben Messer was born a very special boy alongside his twin brother, Lucas. Ben not only was born with heart issues but several of his organs were in trouble too. In his first 7 months of life, Ben had 4 open heart surgeries. In each of these surgeries, Ben relied on the local blood supply from Hoxworth Blood Center. Ben earned the nickname "Ben Strong" because of his ability to get through so many surgeries. Unfortunately, Ben only lived 13 months before passing away from his heart disease. In his memory his family hosts 'Ben Strong Week' each year on the week of his passing in July. It also includes a blood drive and ways to thank the healthcare workers that dedicate their lives to saving people like Ben.
Read about Ben's story here.
Listen here.