Teen takes part in blood drives after life-threatening accident



MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- After living through a life-threatening accident, Rasheed Ali Markis' survival was dubbed "The Miracle Comeback" -- and now the teen is helping others survive tragic situations.

In August, 2009, Rasheed was run over by two trucks while crossing the street near 16th and Greenfield on his bike. He lost 46 pints of blood during surgery.

"He had lost one kidney, half his liver, broke his pelvis, crushed one lung," said Bilal Markis, Rasheed's father. "They said he basically had a 5% chance to live. Basically they were getting ready for me to bury him."

Bilal says Rasheed survived with the power of prayer and amazing surgeons. For the past four years, Rasheed has taken part in blood drives to benefit others -- giving back and encouraging people to donate blood.

"I thank the people that gave me blood. I should do it for the people that need it, too," said Rasheed. "I want to donate blood to show them I care about them."

A blood drive Saturday, January 4th at the north side YMCA was just one of many the family takes part in.

"My plan is every three months, do a blood drive. This is my 10th," said Rasheed.

Representative Jocasta Zamarripa showed support by not only giving blood, but presenting Rasheed with a plaque for his inspiration, especially at a time when donations are vital.

"Each day we need to collect about 800 units," said Andrea Siverling with the Blood Center of Wisconsin. "When the cold weather shuts down, there's a loss there and our goal is to serve our hospitals and patients."

The Markis family has planned several Miracle Comeback Blood Drives across the world. They have also partnered with Wheel and Sprocket to help raise awareness about bike safety.