Make A Difference Minute: A Survivor's Purpose

On this Make a Difference Minute, I have Jamie Schanbaum, a survivor of meningococcal disease whose life changed forever while she was attending college in Texas. Like many college students, Jamie was simply enjoying campus life when what seemed like flu-like symptoms quickly turned into a medical emergency. Within hours, she was fighting for her life. She spent seven months in the hospital, and to save her life, doctors amputated both legs below the knee and all of her fingers. Today, Jamie has found a new purpose. She shares her story so other families will understand just how serious meningococcal disease can be and why informed conversations matter. Jamie says that if she had known more about the disease and the steps that could be taken to help prevent it, she would have been proactive. Her hope is that no one else has to endure what she experienced. Parents are encouraged to talk with their child’s healthcare provider about meningococcal disease and learn more about the available prevention options. For more information, personal stories, and conversation starters, visit Ask2BSure.com. This MADM is brought to you by Hydration Lounge, proudly supporting stories and the people who make our communities strong. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️