Judy Morand Serves Community through Hoxworth Blood Drive and more

Judy Morand passed away in 2014 after fighting leukemia for seven years. Her legacy outlives her through the Judy Morand Center of Hope and the Judy Morand Hoxworth Memorial Blood Drive. 

A Hard-Fought Battle

Judy was diagnosed with a rare form of leukemia in 2007 when she was in her early 50s. This was the result of a biopsy of a breast lump that was noted to have an elevated white blood count. The average life expectancy for this type of leukemia was seven months with no treatment, and up to 19 months with treatment.

Initially Judy felt OK, and her quality of life was good. Unfortunately, that was short-lived. Eventually her white blood cell count was too high, and she needed treatment. Between medicine, a bone marrow transplant, blood transfusions and more, she beat the odds surviving for seven years. She passed away March 26, 2014 at the age of 59.

Her husband John shares more about his wife and what kind of person she was.

“Judy Morand was an unassuming individual who lived an ordinary life in an extraordinary way. People were attracted to her because of her warmth and always knowing that she would accept them as they are and never pass judgement. Judy lived in the shadows as a support person for all. 

“She had an amazing gift that allowed others to put complete trust in her friendship and knowing they would never be betrayed. She was a loving mother and wife who was adored by her family, both immediate and extended. Her resume was not a list of impressive accomplishments, but was built on everyday acts of kindness and unmatched character.  

“Judy greeted all with a hug that was gentle, comforting and sincere. The love she brought to everyday life was palpable and undeniable. And, most importantly, she had no ego. It was never about her but always about you.”

Service to Others

Judy was very involved at her Catholic parish, All Saints Catholic Church, and the Ursuline Ultimate Auction. She was “Team Mom” for the St. Xavier football team, chair of the 50th anniversary celebration of All Saints Parish, and served her community with many volunteer positions. 

The role closest to her heart was her involvement with Back2Back ministries, which serves the needs of orphans across the globe. During the latter part of her life, she made approximately seven trips with that organization to Tres Reyes, Mexico. She would often identify those having the most severe handicaps and bring love into their lives. 

After Judy passed, $400,000 was raised in her memory to build the “Judy Morand Center of Hope” on the grounds of the Tres Reyes Community Center. 

The Judy Morand Hoxworth Memorial Blood Drive

Started the year following her death, the Judy Morand Hoxworth Memorial Blood Drive is now in its 10th year. It’s estimated the blood donated through this drive to date has helped improve the lives of 2,200 local patients. 

Judy received blood and platelet transfusions often during her fight with leukemia. One time in particular, blood donations made it possible for her to enjoy a very special time. September 1, 2013, Judy’s daughter got married. Two days before the ceremony, Judy received several units of blood that allowed her to enjoy the ceremony and reception.

“She looked beautiful and it was a glorious day with her,” remembers John. “As a result, I am grateful for what Hoxworth did for my family and am honored to give back to their cause.”

John encourages all of those who are able to give the gift of life as a way to serve their community similar to the way Judy lived her life.

“People should donate blood because it is a wonderful way to perform an act of kindness and improve the lives of others,” says John.

This year, Judy’s memorial blood drive takes place from 9 am until 3 pm Saturday, April 5 at the Marge Schott Center at All Saints Church in Kenwood, Ohio.

To schedule your appointment, please click here.