SAN BERNARDINO – Adrian Grajeda, 15, will represent LifeStream blood bank in the 2019 Rose Parade® when he walks alongside the Donate Life™ float, themed “Rhythm of the Heart.”
At 10 years of age, Grajeda suffered catastrophic injuries to his right leg from flying debris when a car careened through his school fence during recess. Adrian required emergency blood transfusions to be stabilized for surgery.
“I remember like it was yesterday the ride to the hospital with Adrian, and how much blood he needed just to live,” said Eli Grajeda, the young man’s father. “We are so thankful for generous LifeStream blood donors. For Adrian to represent them in the Rose Parade is humbling. He takes that responsibility very seriously.”
Grajeda’s leg had to be amputated below the knee. But he gamely endured grueling physical therapy and a succession of prostheses that culminated with a ‘blade” that enabled Adrian to resume an active, fulfilling life. Grajeda was starting safety on the 2018 Palm Desert High School junior varsity football team.
And on Jan. 1, the 15-year-old will comfortably walk the 5 1/2-mile parade route down the famed Colorado Boulevard in Pasadena and inspire a worldwide audience.
“I’m excited to be part of the Rose Parade® and represent LifeStream blood donors, who saved my life,” Grajeda said. “Without them, I wouldn’t be here.”
The Donate Life™ float will include 44 flora graph honorees, 18 float riders and eight walkers – one of whom is Grajeda.
Donate Life America, a 501(c3) nonprofit organization, manages and promotes Donate Life™, the national brand for the cause of organ, eye and tissue donation.
The theme for the 130th Rose Parade® is “The Melody of Life.” The parade begins at 8 a.m. New Year’s Day and will be broadcast locally by NBC, ABC, KTLA and Univision.
LifeStream is the exclusive provider of blood products and services to all Coachella Valley-area hospitals. For more information or to set an appointment, call 800-879-4484 or visit LStream.org.
