"The tractor overturned:" Donated blood saved man's life after farm accident; how you can help others like him
MILWAUKEE -- One never knows when tragedy will strike, but when a Brown County man experienced a life-threatening injury, he had the support and resources he needed to get through it. Donated blood saved Jason Pansier's life, and now, his family is paying it forward.
Jason Pansier's family has partnered with the BloodCenter of Wisconsin to raise awareness about the importance of becoming a blood donor. Jason was critically injured in July at their family farm.
"Jason was running a big tractor with a scraper and the tractor overturned," Roy Pansier, Jason's father said.
36-year-old Jason, who is also a captain and president of the Ledgeview Fire Department was pinned under the 40,000-pound tractor.
"I knew it wasn't good," Jeff Pansier, Jason's brother said.
Jeff Pansier, who is also a firefighter, responded to the scene to help his brother. During the two-hour rescue, Jason was able to remain mentally strong, but he knew how serious this accident was.
Jason Pansier farm accident
"He said 'I'm going to die when they lift this off of me' because he knew he was going to bleed out. The tractor was basically like a tourniquet on his left leg. There was so much pressure. It was crushing pain. It broke his femur in three different spots," Jeff Pansier said.
"They had to take his leg to save his life," Roy Pansier said.
Emergency crews eventually got Jason Pansier into an ambulance and then a helicopter took him to the hospital. He needed lots of blood in order to survive -- more than 250 units.
"There are over 300 people that saved his life -- that donated. One of the first words he ever said was 'how am I ever going to repay anybody?'" Roy Pansier said.
The family is now encouraging anyone who is able to donate blood to do so.
Jason Pansier farm accident
"It`s awesome. You have that sense that you really did help somebody," Jan Cegielski, a blood donor said.
Those who donate blood and Pansier's family members realize the importance of this life-saving blood.
"You got to keep replenishing the supply," Cegielski said.
Jason Pansier is still recovering from that July accident.
Jason Pansier farm accident
You are encouraged to donate blood this week during the BloodCenter of Wisconsin's "Big League Blood Drive."
The 14th annual blood drive will take place this Wednesday, August 26th and Thursday, August 27th at Wisconsin State Fair Park.
Join other fans and blood donors to enjoy your favorite tailgate treats and relive your most exciting Brewers memories:
Date: Wednesday, August 26
Time: 7:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.
Location: Tommy Thompson Center at Wisconsin State Fair Park -- 84th and Schlinger
Date: Thursday, August 27
Time: 7:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.
Location: Tommy Thompson Center at Wisconsin State Fair Park -- 84th and Schlinger
Everyone who attempts to donate will receive a voucher for a pair of tickets to one of the following games:
CLICK HERE to learn more about the Big League Blood Drive.