“I Didn’t Know It Was That Serious”: A Teen’s Experience With a Blood Transfusion

At HEAL, we believe that hearing directly from real people, especially other teens, makes healthcare more understandable and more human. That’s why we’re excited to share this interview with someone who has firsthand experience navigating the healthcare system. Their insights show just how important communication, clarity, and confidence are, especially for young people.

Brycen is a 16 year old girl who lives a normal life. She has a sister, two dogs, and enjoys to read and draw. However, in August of last year, after getting a blood test, she received a major health scare. With an overall iron level of 6, Brycen was rushed to the emergency room and received a blood transfusion.

Blood transfusions can sound intimidating, especially when you're young and not sure what’s going on with your body. In this post, we’re sharing the real experience of Brycen Wolf, a teen who went through a life-threatening case of anemia that led to an emergency transfusion. Their story is a reminder of how important it is to listen to your body, ask questions, and take your health seriously, even when you're young.

The Diagnosis No One Expects

Brycen’s journey started with symptoms that many teens might brush off: feeling cold, breathless, exhausted, and even seeing black spots when standing.“I had restless legs, hair loss, pale skin, cold hands and feet… I suspected anemia, but I didn’t realize how bad it was.”

By the time Brycen went to the doctor, her hemoglobin levels were dangerously low, at a 6. That’s when doctors told her she needed a blood transfusion, immediately.

Fear, Uncertainty, and a Long Night at the Hospital

“I was really scared,” Brycen admits. “I thought needing a blood transfusion meant something was seriously wrong with me.”

The physical process wasn’t painful, but it was long and emotionally intense. “I got to the hospital at 5 p.m. and left the next morning at 11. I had blood drawn a few times, got my vitals checked, and received two bags of blood.”

What helped? “Texting people and the Ativan they gave me.”

What Teens Should Know About Transfusions

When asked what she wished more teens knew, Brycen didn’t hesitate:

“I wish more teens knew how important it is to get routine blood draws. Also, I wish they understood that transfusions and emergencies aren’t as rare as they may seem.”

It’s not always easy to know what’s normal and what isn’t. But ignoring symptoms can be dangerous. Brycen’s advice? "Ask questions. Reach out to your doctor if something feels off."

Mental Health, Support, and Gaps in the System

Even though Brycen didn’t feel dismissed or mistreated, she didn’t feel deeply supported either. “No one made me feel unsafe… but I didn’t feel especially understood. That might’ve been on me, though—I didn’t really open up.”

She also pointed out an important reality:

“Teens from less privileged backgrounds might not have had the same outcome. A lot of people don’t get regular bloodwork or run into issues with insurance.”

The Role of Schools and Doctors

Brycen believes more education could make a huge difference.“I had no idea I needed yearly bloodwork until my hematologist told me,” they said. “Schools should absolutely teach more about topics like anemia and blood loss.”

She also emphasized that every teen is different and healthcare should reflect that.

“The best approach is to treat each case individually.”

Final Thoughts

To any teen facing a similar situation, Brycen’s message is simple but powerful:

“You aren’t alone. Other people go through similar things. Be brave enough to ask questions.”

At HEAL, we’re grateful to Brycen for sharing her story. It’s a reminder that teen health isn’t just about check-ups and appointments; it’s about listening to your body, asking questions, and not being afraid to take your health seriously.

If you have a story to share, we’d love to hear from you. Your voice might be the one that helps someone else feel a little less alone.