What if you were told one day that you had a rare blood disorder that only affects 3 cases per million people? This was the case for Janice Weaver, Director of Community Relations for the City of Houston, as she was diagnosed with TTP (Thrombotic Thrombocytopenia Purpura), a rare life-threatening thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA).
When she first found out she had the blood disorder from her doctor, her reaction was, “Okay, I have it, can you treat it?” Weaver had signs of a stroke as well as tremors, which if not treated, TTP can cause strokes or early death. The reason she was having these issues was because “the blood had depleted out of my body,” she said. The doctors had to give her an implanted port so they could start the process of giving her the plasma freeze treatment.
Instead of looking at her diagnosis as a negative thing, she took it as “God knowing I would do something with it,” she said, which is why she created One Body Networking, which is a foundation that works to save lives through blood donations. “That is the reason I started the blood drives since I was at Methodist Willowbrook, during the whole course of that time of getting all the transfusions, they never once asked me or the family to try to figure out how to get the blood back into their bank assistance.” Weaver didn’t know where the blood was coming from, especially since she was receiving 15 units a day, and she wanted to pay it forward.
The name One Body Networking is biblical and is derived from a scripture in Romans that says, “We’re many members, but one body.” She further added, “Through the process of doing the blood drives, it’s always been a connection with somebody. Texas Women Empowerment Center is the one that loaned me their building the first time that I did my first blood drive with them…And the different partners coming in, so it just made sense to say, one body, one body network, and women and members, but one body… everybody has a role.”
Recently, the network celebrated ten years, and has received a great amount of support from colleges, churches, and a host of other individuals and organizations. One Body Networking also received the Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center Small Hero Award. The organization went up against the Jewish Community Center as well as the Houston Museum of Natural Science, so winning that award was a big achievement. One Body Networking also made the calendar for the month of February for the Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center’s 2023 calendar.
There are many stigmas that can come with donating blood, but Weaver wants everyone to know that one donor saves three lives and that you shouldn’t be afraid to give blood. “It’s in your blood to save a life, and you have to have it in your heart to want to save a life.” One Body Networking has saved over 1500 lives and continues to save many more. Even through COVID, One Body Networking was still saving lives when many individuals were afraid to give blood during that time.
In addition to saving lives through blood donations, One Body Networking also has a scholarship program. “People couldn’t donate blood, so they started donating money, she said,” and last year they gave out nine $500 scholarships and two $750 scholarships.
One Body Networking will be celebrating 10 years in September, and Weaver is so proud of the work that she and her team has accomplished over the decade. “I’m humble and I’m grateful that I’ve had this opportunity. God has put me on a platform that I never even dreamt of, because being able to save a life doesn’t cost you a dime.”
If you are interested in saving a life, One Body Networking has an upcoming blood drive and back to school event that will take place on Saturday, August 19 at 8333 Sweetwater Ln, Houston TX, 77037. For more information about the event and the organization, you can visit www.onebodynetworking.org.
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October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.
