Introducing NBCA’s December Volunteers of the Month, Ann and Peter McAvinn. The McAvinn’s live in Wellesley, Massachusetts, a small town outside of Boston. We are honoring Ann and Peter this month in recognition of their selfless contributions and dedication to the National Blood Clot Alliance.

After Ann’s brother, James Bredin, died suddenly at the age of 46 from a pulmonary embolism in 2015, she knew she had to do something to educate others and raise awareness about this silent killer. This past July, Ann and Peter were married in Wellesley. In lieu of wedding gifts, they generously requested that their guests donate to one of two charities. The options were either the National Blood Clot Alliance, in memory of James Bredin, or The Julie Fund in memory of Peter’s first wife, Julie McAvinn. As a result of these donations, nearly $10,000 was raised for NBCA, and our friendship with the McAvinn’s began.

December 22, 2017 will mark two years since James passed away. He left behind Jennifer, his wife of 17 years, two children, Jessica and Ellie, and a large extended family. The National Blood Clot Alliance is so grateful to Ann and Peter for sharing James’ legacy with us, and for making NBCA such a big part of their special day. It is without a doubt that James’ memory continues to live on through the lives of those he loved. The funds donated in his honor will help NBCA continue our lifesaving mission.

Our most heartfelt thanks to Ann and Peter for their dedication to our mission and their efforts in helping us save lives!