This is So Much Bigger Than Me

“It’s the best job in the world.”

That’s how Stacey Zeerip describes being a physical therapist assistant. For the past 13 years, eight of those at Corewell Health, she’s been helping people move again — whether it’s knee pain, joint pain, or athletes recovering from injury.

“I get to walk with them through their journey,” she says. “It’s such a gift to help someone return to doing what they love.”

She works at Zeeland Hospital, not far from where she grew up in Holland, Michigan. Her days are filled with movement, encouragement, and a whole lot of heart.

But there’s another journey she’s been on — one that started with a fear.

“I’ve been afraid of needles my whole life,” she admits with a laugh.

So, she made a list. Forty things to do before turning 40. And one of those? Conquer the fear of needles.

“I’ve got two years left,” she says. “I’ve already checked off Mount Rushmore, Yellowstone, skydiving, and touching all the Great Lakes — well, all but one!”

And yes, she conquered that fear of needles, too. After encouragement from a co-worker, her first blood donation was in June, followed by another in August.

“It wasn’t scary,” she says. “The people there were amazing. They put me at ease.” She donated at a blood drive right at Zeeland Hospital. And then something incredible happened.

“I got to see where my blood went. I got a text saying my blood was going to help someone on the east side of the state. That moment hit me hard. This is so much bigger than me.”

So, what would she tell other team members who are on the fence about donating blood?

“It may seem scary at first, but it’s quick, painless, and makes a huge impact.” She adds, “The coolest part is they tell you where your blood goes. It makes the person real. It makes the experience personal.”

And she’s not done yet. Stacey plans to continue donating blood along with checking off the rest of her 40 before 40 list.

“It’s really easy. The Versiti team is so kind. They come with a heart of gratitude. You can tell they truly appreciate you being there.”

We share stories like hers to inspire others to donate blood — because every drop counts.

You can find a complete list of dates, times, and locations to give blood at one of the community blood drives here.

The donation process usually takes one hour, including registration, a brief medical screening and blood collection. Donors must show a photo ID, such as a driver’s license.

For more information on blood donation, or to schedule an appointment, visit donate.michigan.versiti.org.