Big Battle for a Little Girl

Written by Jan Hale, American Red Cross Blood Services
 

We most often hear of life-altering diseases affecting their victims later in life. While these are always hard stories to tell and to receive, they seem to be all the more heart-breaking when the life they are affecting has just begun.

At only 3 years old, Reece Griffin was diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) on April 16, 2015. ALL is a potentially life-threatening illness that can cause bone or joint pain, reoccurring infections and fatigue. Reece has had to receive numerous blood transfusions since her diagnosis, and she still has a long way to go.

On July 14, the American Red Cross is operating a blood drive in honor of Reece. We would like to encourage area residents to honor her and all of the other patients in the DFW metroplex in need of blood this summer by donating at the event.

“We can never thank those that rolled up a sleeve to give the blood that Reece has already received,” said Reece’s mom, Roxxy Griffin. “But, we can help educate our friends, neighbors and others on the importance of giving blood, especially during summer.”

The summer is an especially difficult time to collect enough blood to meet the needs of hospital patients. Many regular donors are traveling and vacationing, so summertime donors are extremely vital to ensuring that our area hospitals receive enough blood to fulfill patient needs. Blood donors with all types, particularly O negative, A negative and B negative, are urged to make an appointment.

Donate Blood in Honor of Reece McKenzie Griffin

Tuesday, July 14, 10:00 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Math/Science/Technology Magnet School

450 Abrams Road, Richardson, Texas

To make an appointment to donate, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org (Sponsor code: reecemckenzie) or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

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Black History Month: “He Had Guts” - The Legendary Life of Doctor Jerome H. Holland

by Suzanne Wiley, volunteer contributor 

When I told friends and colleagues I started volunteering for the American Red Cross, I had many people tell me they wanted me to let them know when it was time to donate blood. For many, the Red Cross has become synonymous with blood drives and for good reason. The organization is one of the country’s largest blood collectors, allowing for the distribution of more than eight million safe blood transfusions a year. Further, The Red Cross was a leader in developing testing for infectious diseases spread by blood, as well as continuing to lead in research and development through the Red Cross Jerome H. Holland Laboratory for the Biomedical Sciences.

Unless you have been a recipient of blood products and services, you probably don’t give much thought to the safety of blood given by donors. Thanks to Dr. Jerome H. Holland, the Red Cross’ first African-American Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Red Cross, the organization’s dedication to the health and well-being of victims needing blood services expanded greatly by Dr. Holland’s service, passion and commitment.

Dr. Holland was born into poverty on January 9, 1916 in Auburn, New York. He was one of 13 children. From 1931 to 1935, Jerome played football for Auburn High School. After graduating high school, he was accepted to the prestigious Cornell University, where he was the first African-American to play football for the school. While attending Cornell, he was inspired to volunteer while helping victims of a major flood in the area. For the rest of Dr. Holland’s life, he was dedicated to serving not only his community, but building relationships around the world.

Though he was an accomplished sportsman and academic—named twice All-American while at Cornell and received honors, Jerome did not get the opportunity to interview with career recruiters. Still segregated at the time, a career in professional football was also out. He documents his thoughts on this in his published book, “Black Opportunity.”

Dr. Holland did not let discrimination set him back, however. He continued at Cornell. After receiving his Bachelor of Science in Sociology, Jerome entered the Master of Science in Sociology degree, and earned a Master’s in 1941. He left Cornell to teach Sociology and Physical Education at Lincoln University in Pennsylvania. From there, Dr. Jerome H. Holland continued for the rest of his life to be an educator, activist, and volunteer.

In 1950, Dr. Holland received a Ph.D in Sociology from the University of Pennsylvania. Throughout the rest of his life, various colleges and universities gave Dr. Holland over 20 honorary degrees. He also served as President of two Historically Black Colleges and Universities—Hampton Institute and Delaware State College, where he grew the failing Delaware State College enrollment tenfold during his tenure there.

President Richard Nixon offered Dr. Holland the controversial position of U.S. Ambassador to Sweden in 1970. Due to a strained relationship between the United States and Sweden, Dr. Holland knew the appointment would be a challenge. Always willing to meet a challenge head-on, he accepted. At the time, Jerome was only the second African-American Ambassador to have served in a European country.

After asked to serve as the Director of the Board of the United States Stock Exchange, he left the position in 1972. He was the first African-American to hold the position.

In 1979, Dr. Jerome H. Holland was elected and appointed by President Jimmy Carter as the Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Red Cross. The Board of Directors leads the Board of Governors, which oversees the organization. The volunteer position of Chairman is the highest leading official position in the Red Cross. He served as Chairman, until he passed away in New York on January 13, 1985. During his time as Chairman, he facilitated a positive relationship with the Red Crescent. The Red Cross renamed the research and development lab in honor of Dr. Holland in 1987.

The legendary Jerome H. Holland certainly led an honorary and inspiring life. Besides all the great, major accomplishments listed, Dr. Holland served on nine boards of major U. S. companies—often being the only African-American to do so, researched for the Pew Memorial Trust, was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame and National Football Foundation Hall of Fame and the first African-American to be awarded the Theodore Roosevelt Award in 1972, as well as serving as the first African-American Chairman of Planned Parenthood in 1968.

After his death, Dr. Jerome H. Holland was posthumously awarded the highest civilian award one can receive—the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1985. During his speech, President Ronald Regan described Jerome as “…a leading educator, civil rights activists, author and diplomat…,” leading “a life of service. The memory of which today serves as an inspiration to millions.”

The American Red Cross in Westchester County has put together an informative documentary honoring Dr. Holland’s life. 

You can watch it here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HKVSjh0V30U

This story was originally posted on 2/25/14.

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Download the Blood App for Blood Donor Month

Life (or afterlife) as a vampire just got easier thanks to the new American Red Cross Blood Donor App. The latest of many American Red Cross apps provides users with information to schedule blood donations, track their total donations, get rewards, and invite friends to join them on a lifesaving team.

“As the nation’s single largest supplier of blood and blood products, the Red Cross is uniquely positioned to bring this cutting edge technology to blood and platelet donors,” said Shaun Gilmore, president of Red Cross Biomedical Services. “Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood, and the Blood Donor App is a new way to help meet that constant need.”

Through the Blood Donor App, users can schedule and manage their donation appointments, track the lifetime impact of their donations and recruit friends and family to roll up a sleeve with them. Other features of the app include:

• A blood drive or blood donation center locator;  
• The ability to sync a blood donation appointment with the user’s calendar;
• Personalized “selfies” donors can use as they share their donation experience through social media; 
• Special badges donors can unlock as they interact with the app, make donations and spread the word; 
• A chance for donors to come together to form teams, track their cumulative impact and view standings on the Blood Donor Teams Leaderboard; and
• Uplifting donor and blood recipient stories that show the power of rolling up a sleeve to help save lives.

Blood Donor App users will also get unique “thank yous” from the Red Cross and its partners – exclusive offers and discounts from some of America’s best brands.

The Red Cross has become a leader in putting vital safety information in the hands of people who need it during emergencies, with its award-winning disaster and preparedness apps downloaded more than 5 million times over the past two years. The new Blood Donor App takes it one step further by helping people save lives through blood donations.

The Blood Donor App, along with the others, can be found in app stores by searching for American Red Cross, visiting redcross.org/apps or redcrossblood.org/bloodapp, or by texting BLOODAPP to 90999 for a direct link to download. Message and data rates for texting may apply.

Eligible blood donors do not need a smart phone to schedule an appointment to give blood. Appointments can always be made by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or by visiting redcrossblood.org.

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Local Woman Saves Lives in Memory of Husband

by Jan Hale, Communications Program Manager, American Red Cross Blood Services

John Sills with 6-month old daughter, Sydnee Grace

What would you do if your life had been touched not once, but twice by the unselfish act of strangers? Trinity Meadows School Nurse Alicia Dunn knows more than most the importance of donating blood, with her husband receiving many units before his death from non-Hodgkin’s and Hodgkin’s lymphoma and a close friend also fighting cancer and currently receiving blood. She choose to use her experiences as a reason to pay it forward by coordinating the first-ever blood drive at Trinity Meadows Intermediate School.

The drive was held in memory of Dunn’s husband, John Sills (pictured here with his daughter) and in honor of friend, Ricky Dean. Sills battled non-Hodgkin’s and Hodgkin’s lymphoma for 16 months before passing away in March 2009. He received approximately 61 pints of blood and blood products during his battle with the disease.

“My daughter and I are so thankful for the time we had with John,” Dunn said. “We can never repay the generous blood donors who helped give us that time, but we can pay it forward.”

Rickey Dean, currently fighting Acute Myeloid Leukemia

Dean is currently undergoing treatment for Acute Myeloid Leukemia and has, to date, received three pints of blood and blood products. As plans are finalized for a stem cell transplant, Dean is expected to need more blood. 

In total, 22 units of blood were collected at the drive last week.

The timing of this blood drive is important to the American Red Cross as we look ahead to the long, hot summer. We are hoping this drive can serve as a reminder to put donating blood on your list of important things to do in May and throughout the summer months. To make your blood donor appointment, click on www.redcrossblood.org. 

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Black History Month: “He Had Guts” - The Legendary Life of Doctor Jerome H. Holland

by Suzanne Wiley, volunteer contributor 

When I told friends and colleagues I started volunteering for the American Red Cross, I had many people tell me they wanted me to let them know when it was time to donate blood. For many, the Red Cross has become synonymous with blood drives and for good reason. The organization is one of the country’s largest blood collectors, allowing for the distribution of more than eight million safe blood transfusions a year. Further, The Red Cross was a leader in developing testing for infectious diseases spread by blood, as well as continuing to lead in research and development through the Red Cross Jerome H. Holland Laboratory for the Biomedical Sciences.

Unless you have been a recipient of blood products and services, you probably don’t give much thought to the safety of blood given by donors. Thanks to Dr. Jerome H. Holland, the Red Cross’ first African-American Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Red Cross, the organization’s dedication to the health and well-being of victims needing blood services expanded greatly by Dr. Holland’s service, passion and commitment.

Dr. Holland was born into poverty on January 9, 1916 in Auburn, New York. He was one of 13 children. From 1931 to 1935, Jerome played football for Auburn High School. After graduating high school, he was accepted to the prestigious Cornell University, where he was the first African-American to play football for the school. While attending Cornell, he was inspired to volunteer while helping victims of a major flood in the area. For the rest of Dr. Holland’s life, he was dedicated to serving not only his community, but building relationships around the world.

Though he was an accomplished sportsman and academic—named twice All-American while at Cornell and received honors, Jerome did not get the opportunity to interview with career recruiters. Still segregated at the time, a career in professional football was also out. He documents his thoughts on this in his published book, “Black Opportunity.”

Dr. Holland did not let discrimination set him back, however. He continued at Cornell. After receiving his Bachelor of Science in Sociology, Jerome entered the Master of Science in Sociology degree, and earned a Master’s in 1941. He left Cornell to teach Sociology and Physical Education at Lincoln University in Pennsylvania. From there, Dr. Jerome H. Holland continued for the rest of his life to be an educator, activist, and volunteer.

In 1950, Dr. Holland received a Ph.D in Sociology from the University of Pennsylvania. Throughout the rest of his life, various colleges and universities gave Dr. Holland over 20 honorary degrees. He also served as President of two Historically Black Colleges and Universities—Hampton Institute and Delaware State College, where he grew the failing Delaware State College enrollment tenfold during his tenure there.

President Richard Nixon offered Dr. Holland the controversial position of U.S. Ambassador to Sweden in 1970. Due to a strained relationship between the United States and Sweden, Dr. Holland knew the appointment would be a challenge. Always willing to meet a challenge head-on, he accepted. At the time, Jerome was only the second African-American Ambassador to have served in a European country.

After asked to serve as the Director of the Board of the United States Stock Exchange, he left the position in 1972. He was the first African-American to hold the position.

In 1979, Dr. Jerome H. Holland was elected and appointed by President Jimmy Carter as the Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Red Cross. The Board of Directors leads the Board of Governors, which oversees the organization. The volunteer position of Chairman is the highest leading official position in the Red Cross. He served as Chairman, until he passed away in New York on January 13, 1985. During his time as Chairman, he facilitated a positive relationship with the Red Crescent. The Red Cross renamed the research and development lab in honor of Dr. Holland in 1987.

The legendary Jerome H. Holland certainly led an honorary and inspiring life. Besides all the great, major accomplishments listed, Dr. Holland served on nine boards of major U. S. companies—often being the only African-American to do so, researched for the Pew Memorial Trust, was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame and National Football Foundation Hall of Fame and the first African-American to be awarded the Theodore Roosevelt Award in 1972, as well as serving as the first African-American Chairman of Planned Parenthood in 1968.

After his death, Dr. Jerome H. Holland was post-humanly awarded the highest civilian award one can receive—the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1985. During his speech, President Ronald Regan described Jerome as “…a leading educator, civil rights activists, author and diplomat…,” leading “a life of service. The memory of which today serves as an inspiration to millions.”

The American Red Cross in Westchester County has put together an informative documentary honoring Dr. Holland’s life. 

You can watch it here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HKVSjh0V30U

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Blood Donors Needed: Red Cross Issues Emergency Ask For Donors



Written by Kimberly Hill, staff contributor

 

The American Red Cross has an emergency need for blood and platelet donors of every type. There is almost half the amount of readily available Red Cross blood now than there was at this point in time last year. Eligible donors with types O positive, O negative, A negative and B negative are encouraged to donate double red cells.

Right now, donations are not keeping pace with the demand for blood products. Many regular donors are busy or traveling and unavailable to give. With schools on vacation and the Fourth of July drawing near, it’s important to remember that patients don’t get a holiday from needing blood. The need is constant.

Many say they don’t give blood because they were never asked. Consider yourself asked! Please donate to help patients in need during this summer blood shortage. For more information or to find a nearby donation opportunity, visit http://www.redcrossblood.org/ or call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

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Gibson Foundation Partners with Red Cross for Rock and Roll Up Your Sleeve

written by Kimberly Hill, staff contributor



American Red Cross blood donors rock! The annual campaign, Rock and Roll Up Your Sleeve, is underway and continues through July 31. This year, the Red Cross is teaming up with the Gibson Foundation in an effort to encourage people to give blood or platelets over the summer. The partnership is one example of the foundation’s efforts to promote health and welfare initiatives.

“We’re delighted to partner with the Red Cross, as they are obviously aligned with our core beliefs and values,” said Dave Berryman, vice president of the Gibson Foundation and president of Gibson Guitar Corp. “Supporting this wonderful program is very exciting to us. Working directly with the Red Cross, we hope to bring in as many donors possible who are ready to ‘rock and roll up their sleeve.’”



During the campaign, presenting donors will receive a chance to win a Gibson guitar, co-branded guitar pick (fixed sites only), and a rock-‘n’-roll-themed T-shirt. As a special incentive for young donors, anyone from 16-21 years old can enter to win a $5,000 scholarship as well.

Such generous giveaways from the Gibson Foundation give people extra incentive to donate during the summer, a time when the blood supply often drops to low levels.

“We are all only a beat away from being able to help save lives by donating blood or platelets,” said Steffi Tatum Dite, Red Cross marketing director. “I am profoundly grateful for the Gibson Foundation’s support of the Red Cross in our efforts to promote blood and platelet donation. Their generous donation to our summer campaign is generating a lot of excitement within the organization and will be a big hit with donors. I applaud the Gibson Foundation’s commitment to supporting programs and nonprofit organizations that create a brighter outlook for our communities.”

The Gibson Foundation and Red Cross invite you to donate blood or platelets this summer and help save lives. You’ll feel like a rock star — and so will the patients who receive your lifesaving gift.

Blood drives are sometimes added throughout the month, so check http://www.redcrossblood.com/ for updates. The Dallas-area donation center, located in Farmers Branch at One Medical Parkway, Suite 215, is open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Saturday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.
How to donate blood

Call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit www.redcrossblood.org for more information, or to make an appointment. Every blood type is needed to ensure the Red Cross maintains an adequate blood supply. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Donors must have general good health, weigh at least 110 pounds and be at least 17 years old (16 with a completed Parental Consent Form). Many donors are eligible to give blood every 56 days.

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Blood Services Volunteer Driver David Kasten: More than 1,000 Hours and Countless Miles of Selflessness

Written by Linh Le, staff contributor

American Red Cross Blood Services staff member Lynn Burdick shares a laugh with devoted volunteer David Kasten after one of his many shifts of transporting blood to those in need.

For the past two years, David Kasten, 79, has volunteered as a transport driver for the American Red Cross to help deliver blood to patients in need. Sometimes he takes long-distance routes, which can keep him on the road for up to eight hours. To David, volunteering is a way to maintain an active lifestyle while helping the community.

“By volunteering, I get the opportunity to meet new people and travel to Tyler or Bryan, Texas,” Kasten said. “It makes me feel good to know that I am helping patients. I’m looking forward to another 1,000 hours and many more of volunteering.”

In addition, after working more than 50 years as a civil engineer, he is still active in professional organizations, including the American Society of Civil Engineers, National Society of Professional Engineers and Institute of Transportation Engineers. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with family, reading and cheering on the Texas Rangers.

“Kasten is representative of those volunteers who dedicate time but aren't always visible, as they quietly go about delivering blood or assisting at blood drives on a daily basis, but their contribution is significant to the Red Cross as they help patients in need every day,” said Lynn Burdick, Red Cross volunteer coordinator.

We thank David for his tireless dedication to the American Red Cross Blood Services mission. After over 1,000 hours of volunteer driving, we’re sure he’s worn down the tread on some tires but his spirit of enthusiasm and service will make it a long time before he wears out himself!

Information about volunteer opportunities with the Red Cross Blood Services is available at www.redcrossblood.org/volunteer.

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Celebrating our Youth in Action: Meet Red Cross Blood Services Volunteer Angel Diaz

Written by Linh Le, staff contributor

American Red Cross donor recruitment representative Shiela Winans  with Red Cross volunteer Angel Diaz at the Middle College High School blood drive.

Angel Diaz, age 18, knew that if he wanted college and career opportunities he would have to take matters into his own hands. In the coming weeks, Angel will be the first member of his family to graduate high school. Not only will he receive his high school diploma and be class valedictorian, Angel will also receive recognition for obtaining an Associates of Science and Associates of Arts.

In addition to his educational achievements, Angel is an American Red Cross blood drive coordinator volunteer.

“At Middle College High School, we are more focused on academics. I thought a blood drive was a great way to bring solidarity and help out the community at the same time.”

Angel and his friends coordinated the blood drive in every way, from securing rooms to recruiting fellow students to donate blood.

“You could see that the blood drive helped increase morale. We did a great job and exceeded our goal! It was a great way to bring everyone together.”

When he isn’t coordinating blood drives, studying or working, Angel also volunteers at Methodist Hospital in Dallas, where he has logged more than 300 volunteer hours. He said volunteering in the emergency room of the hospital made him realize how important it is to donate blood.

“Patients shouldn’t suffer because there isn’t compatible blood. Initially, I was scared to donate – who isn’t – but after spending time in the emergency room, I know how important is it to donate blood so it’s there for patients when they need it.”

Initially Angel started volunteering to meet people and build his resume for college, but now volunteering is something that he loves.

“Whether I am helping the Red Cross or at the hospital, it makes me feel good to know that I am making a difference.”

This fall, Angel will be attending the University of Denver where he received a full scholarship.

To learn how you can coordinate a blood drive, please visit http://www.redcrossblood.org/hosting-blood-drive.

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The Power of One: Blood Services

By American Red Cross volunteer Joanna Jordan



Roger Warner, 64, has donated over 23 gallons of blood to the Red Cross. He started donating in the late 1970s when a friend with a cancer diagnosis needed blood.


“I thought it would be nice to do,” he says.

And it was. In fact, cancer patients who are going through chemotherapy treatment sometimes need blood as often as once a day. And without people like Roger, they wouldn’t be able to get their required transfusions.

Cancer patients aren’t the only people who find themselves in need of a blood transfusion. Someone in the United States — including car accident victims, newborns, sickle cell patients and so many others —needs blood every two seconds.

Roger says he’s happy to help provide blood for anyone who needs it.

“If one pint can maybe save three lives, that’s great. I think it’s good to do. If you’re physically able to do it, why not?” says Roger.

The Red Cross provides 40 percent of the nation’s blood supply, and not without the donations of generous people like you. January is National Blood Month, so there’s no better time to do your part. Donate today!

Find out how to donate blood at http://www.redcrossblood.org/.

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National Blood Donor Month Spotlight: Give Blood For Less Than an Hour and Save Three Lives

By Catherine Carlton, volunteer



Alison Cook is a healthy and vital part of our Blood Services department today thanks to life-saving blood transfusions.

Commitment to the hospitals! That’s what Alison Cook says is part of her job.


As the donor recruitment supervisor for the American Red Cross blood supply team, Alison is in charge of raising awareness to organize blood drives and delivering the message to area hospitals everyday if there is going to be enough blood.

“We commit blood to hospitals in the area, and they are counting on us,” she said.

The Red Cross counts on YOU to help deliver that promise.

The Red Cross is the primary supplier of the Methodist and Baylor hospitals in Dallas and provides portions of the blood supply to several other area hospitals. The American Red Cross provides 40 percent of the nation's blood supply.

Alison can tell you what happens from there first-hand. Well, what she can remember of it. The human body holds 12-14 units of blood. After a terrible car accident at the age of 18, Alison received 25 units of blood during the many surgeries, medically induced coma and recovery time she worked through at the hospital.

As a donor, you can give one of those life-saving units every 56 days.

“Everyone knows blood is needed. What they don’t consider is who will make that choice, if they don’t?” she said. “Once you start asking for donations and talking to donors, it’s great because you ask the question: ‘Do you know someone who has received blood?’ They do, but they don’t make that connection right off the bat.”

Every two seconds someone needs a blood transfusion. That’s someone’s family member, friend or loved one needing something you can provide for free in a little less than an hour.

One donation can help three patients because blood labs break whole blood into three separate parts. For example, your red blood cells can go to a trauma victim; your plasma can go to a burn victim; and your cryoprecipitate can help someone fighting cancer.

That’s why Alison says she wants people to feel that committment. It’s a day-to-day challenge to meet the hospitals' blood supply needs. If we were in the same position with water or gasoline shortages in our cars, everyone would be lining up to fix this issue. But despite coordinating on average 350 blood drives a month, there is a alwys a greater need we need to fill.

In Alison’s honor, her community hosted three blood drives. That’s 300 units of blood. That is paying it forward to help 900 people.

There is no cost to host a blood drive. The Red Cross will bring everything you need. So talk to your office, your networking group, your favorite nonprofit, your neighborhood, and help relieve Alison’s committment for a day. Don’t think your group is big enough, she’ll help partner your group with another one that is. You can visit redcrossblood.org to learn more about this opportunity. January is National Blood Month and there is no better time pay it forward with the gift of life!

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Give the Perfect Gift. Get Cookies!

Join Santa this Holiday Season and Give the Perfect Gift

Imagine a gift that doesn’t cost you a penny. No coupons, special deals, shipping fees or crowded shopping areas are needed for its purchase. What if the gift that costs you nothing is really the “Perfect Gift”…the gift of life!

Forget about the door buster deals and steals. The Red Cross has the best deal yet – 3 for 1! You can help save up to three lives with one blood donation.

The holidays are one of the toughest times to collect blood but YOU can make a difference. If only 10 percent of the U.S. population donated blood this holiday season, up to 34.2 millions lives would be saved.

This season give more time – time with loved ones, time to create memories and time to laugh. Put away your credit card (unless you're making a purchase from the Red Cross Holiday Giving Catalog at www.redcross.org/gifts) and roll up your sleeve to give a gift that truly matters – the gift of life.

No matter if you’ve been naughty or nice, we’ll be sure to have cookies waiting for you when you come to donate.

To schedule an appointment to donate or find a blood drive near you, visit www.redcrossblood.org. When you're done, take a look at this quick video that's sure to have you laughing! From all of us at the American Red Cross, we wish you a safe and happy holiday season!

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Local high school students and faculty donate more than 100 units of blood

Students filled the high school hallway waiting patiently for their chance to make an impact in the community. Despite long lines, Garland High School (GHS) students and faculty rallied on Halloween to help answer the need for blood. More than 100 GHS students and faculty members came to donate 144 units of blood. Each unit of blood collected can help save up to three lives.

For most students, they look at donating as a rite of passage to adulthood as the legal age to donate in Texas without parental consent is 17. Whatever their inspiration may be to donate, students and faculty members left with feeling as though they made a difference. And they did! It is only with their kind donation that the Red Cross is able to provide blood to patients in need.

Thank you to the GHS family and their Health Occupation Students of America student organization for being an inspiring leader in the community!

To learn how your organization can host a blood drive or to donate, please visit http://www.redcrossblood.org/.

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So You Mean They’re Kinda Like Vampires Mommy?

Guest blog post by Allie with ScrewedUpTexan.com

Last Saturday, my husband and I decided we’d give blood at our church while the Red Cross was running a blood drive. Now I hadn’t given blood since my senior year in high school and to be honest with you I was nervous because in high school I remember being told I had passed out and I had scared the folks running the drive. So for me to actually go to the blood drive and donate again last weekend was an accomplishment in itself.

If you’ve never given blood or it’s been a long time since you last did, you’ll be happy to know that the process is very easy and simple. Basically, you sign in, answer a bunch of questions, get your finger pricked, answer a bunch more questions, and then wait your turn to have your arm stabbed by a big needle. Okay. Fine. The needle ain’t that big, but my mind tends to over exaggerate things like any good Southerner’s would. You know, like a really good gossip story.

We took our kids with us to the church so we could show them what we were doing and why we were doing it. When it was my turn to donate blood, I called my kids over and told them, “Come over here and give me a hug before I die!” Only two of the three did so. My youngest asked me:

“Mommy, what are they going to do with you?”

Me: “Oh, they’re just gonna take a little bit of my blood to give to someone else that needs it.”

Him: “How do they do that?”

Me: “Well, they stick a needle in your arm and then the Red Cross sucks it into a baggie.”

Him: “So, you mean they’re kinda like vampires, Mommy?”

Me: “Exactly.”

And then he ran off not to be seen again until he saw me eating the snacks for the donors. So I gave him a nutter butter bar.

Then I went home and passed out for an hour.

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How you can help save lives

Every two seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood. Blood is the only product that cannot be manufactured and can only be donated. When I go visit blood drives, I am often fascinated by stories of what motivates donors to give the gift of life. Many times the response is simple, “Why not?” Then, there is the thought of paying it forward – if I donate blood, when I need it someone else will donate to help me. Others like 23 gallon donor, Roger Warner decided to start giving to honor another. In Mr. Warner’s case he began donating to honor of a friend diagnosed with cancer. No matter the motivation, each gift of life is greatly appreciated.

Texas Red Cross supervisor, Alison Cook, shares her story of how blood donations saved her life.

“At the age of only 18, I received 25 units of blood following a car accident that led to seven months of hospitalizations. I’m so appreciative of the people who made that voluntary decision to give. Donating blood really taps into what each of us believes about living. It tells us something about what version of life we are choosing for ourselves and what version we believe someone else deserves. So many people are looking for that connection, wanting to be a little bit more engaged with things that matter and are permanent. Donating blood makes you that person.”

One blood donation can save up to three lives. Present to donate at any Red Cross blood drive in Texas by Friday, September 30 and you will be entered into a drawing for a $100 Visa gift card. To schedule an appointment or find a drive near you, visit www.redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-REDCROSS.

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It’s Hard to Keep a Good Man Down

At age 98, the nation’s oldest American Red Cross blood donor continues saving lives.

In the last 100 years, the world has seen a man walk on the moon, two world wars transpire, the formation of the United Nations and the introduction of LifeSavers candy. While these historical benchmarks are well publicized, another significant event of a “true lifesaver” deserves honor and recognition.

On February 17, 1913, Willard M. Hayne, the nation’s oldest American Red Cross blood donor, was born in Gresham, Oregon. Currently 98 years old, Willard began donating in 1949, just one year after Dr. Carl Walter, a trained surgeon, developed a plastic bag for the collection of blood in place of glass bottles.

“Any chance I can encourage people to donate, I will,” Willard exclaimed. Even later in life, when blood donor regulations limited the upper age limit, Willard returned as a regular donor once the limitation was lifted.

Willard has successfully donated 138 units, eight of which occurred in the last 24 months. Not content to stop at 138 donations, Willard last attempted to give blood in August 2011 and will make another attempt on September 22nd in the Coos Bay area, where he’s been retired (and donating) for the last 18 years.

Willard comes from a history of gratitude and hard work, which is instrumental in his philosophy of blood donation. After retiring from the banking industry, Willard states that he “started from the bottom as a bookkeeper and worked my way up to manager.” He finished his career as bank manager at First National Bank of Oregon in Silverton, which is now a Wells Fargo.

Passing on his donation practice to those around him, Willard has instilled the habit of giving blood in his three children, including a son who has provided directed donations in Minnesota due to his rare blood type. Now that Willard is retired, he’s found friends in fellow blood donors in his retirement community. “I feel grateful that I’m healthy enough to donate. It’s been a blessing to me.”

Beyond donating blood, Willard has also made financial donations to the Red Cross after witnessing how the organization provided emergency services during disasters like earthquakes and tsunamis. Although Willard has lived an incredible life of generosity, he is humble when informed of his status as the nation’s oldest American Red Cross blood donor.

“It feels so good to be honored as a donor. I’ve never expected anything in return. You hear about people who need blood and just being able to donate is a gift enough.”

Blood Supply in Texas is in Critical Condition

After months of scorching temperatures, followed by wildfires and hurricanes, the blood supply in Texas is at a critical low. The American Red Cross urges immediate blood donations. Learn more about the immediate need and how you can help save a life.

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Vigilantes Donate to Blood Donors

The Dallas Vigilantes want to thank American Red Cross blood donors for helping keep area hospital shelves supplied this summer. The Lone Star State’s Arena Football League entry knows the importance of having a good backup if one of its players goes down as it is for hospitals to have blood on hand at all times. The Vigilantes are giving complimentary tickets to their regular season closer, Saturday, July 23, at the American Airlines Center against their conference rival Arizona Rattlers.

“The Dallas Vigilante’s are happy to be partnering with the Red Cross with this ticket giveaway,” said Jim Tolbert, Sports Marketing Consultant, PCI. “Come enjoy the game on the 23rd and save a life. That’s a winning combination.”

Tickets will be given away at select locations. Individuals can call 1-800-RED CROSS to find participating Red Cross donor centers or blood drives.

“The Vigilantes have been kind enough to provide enough tickets so that 1,000 donors can get a voucher for two seats at the 2011 closer,” said Alison Cook, American Red Cross. “Arena football is a high-scoring event, fun for the whole family. And indoors where it’s cool. This game could be a preview of the two teams’ meeting in the playoffs and we thank them for sharing.”

While blood is needed year-round it is needed especially in the summer, with schools out, people on vacation or the weather being too hot for some to donate. With the beginning of summer vacations, the supply of type O negative blood at the Red Cross has dropped significantly. A decline in blood donations is typical during the summer as donors become busy with seasonal activities and overlook donating blood. For this reason, it is important for eligible donors with blood type O negative to make and keep appointments to give blood this summer. Donors may subscribe to Red Cross texting by sending redcross to 42227 or registering online at redcrossblood.org.

How to Donate Blood:

Call 1-800-RED CROSS or log on to www.redcrossblood.org for more information or to schedule a blood donation appointment. All blood types are needed to ensure the Red Cross maintains an adequate blood supply. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Donors must be in general good health, weigh at least 110 pounds and be at least 17 years old (16 with completed Parental Consent Form). New height and weight restrictions apply to donors younger than 19. Visit redcrossblood.org to learn more.

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World Blood Donor Day is June 14th - "Celebrating the gift of Blood"

Supermodel Niki Taylor, a Red Cross volunteer and blood recipient

In 2011 alone, nearly 6 million people across America may require a blood transfusion. With no substitute for human blood, those in need rely on the kindness of donors. Through their generous actions, these blood donors prove how one person can make a difference in the lives of many, as one blood donation can help save more than one life.

To raise awareness about this critical issue, American Red Cross Blood Services is partnering with Nexcare™ Bandages on the third-annual Nexcare give Program. This nationwide initiative thanks blood donors and encourages others to give. The campaign kicks off June 14, 2011, World Blood Donor Day, and runs through the end of the month at Red Cross blood drives and donor centers across the country. During this campaign, Nexcare is providing, for free, a limited-edition collection of five fashion bandages emblazoned with the word give to demonstrate how doing good looks good too.

Supermodel Niki Taylor, a Red Cross volunteer and blood recipient, is serving as the face and voice of this year’s campaign. She credits her survival to the donors and doctors who helped save her life.

“As someone who owes her life to donors who gave blood to help someone they didn’t even know, I think giving blood is a critical community service that cannot be overlooked. Currently, however, only about eight percent of those who can give do so each year,” said Niki Taylor. “Through the Red Cross and Nexcare give program, I hope to educate people about the impact each person can have, and help them realize that helping to save a life is always in style.”

The Red Cross must collect 22,000 units of blood each weekday, and another 15,000 each weekend in order to help save the lives of patients like Niki.

Please give today.

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Blood Products Shipped to Alabama

Tornadoes and floods have devastated communities and uprooted families across many states, and the Red Cross is working to provide materials, equipment and blood products to areas hardest hit.

The Red Cross is moving hundreds of blood products to Alabama to make sure hospital patients have the blood they need following the deadly tornadoes there on Wednesday night.

This severe weather has caused the cancellation of 811 blood and platelet donations this week, mostly in the Southeast, South Central and Mid-Atlantic areas.

Maintaining sufficient blood to meet patient needs is a delicate balance between supply and demand. The Red Cross urges eligible donors in unaffected areas to make an appointment to give blood or platelets in the coming days and weeks.

All blood types are needed, but type O-negative donors can make the difference between an adequate blood supply and a shortage.

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Meet John Donor

John L. Billimek, Major Gifts Officer

American Red Cross-Dallas Area Chapter

The following email was sent by an employee at the Dallas Area Chapter in an attempt to inspire his colleagues to give blood this month. We were so touched by this unsolicited and heartfelt appeal. So much so, that we wanted America to know the type of people who serve at the American Red Cross. And we hope you’ll follow John’s extraordinary example and become a blood donor champion.

“I have not had an opportunity to meet most of you receiving this e-mail. Nonetheless, I wanted to encourage to you give blood this month if you can. Because of the really awful weather, we’ve had to cancel some 800 blood drives in our region.

While I have always viewed donating blood as something very small I could do to impact others, I gained a new perspective of blood donations over the last year…

My father lost his life to cancer last July. Prior to this he received three blood product donations which served to extend his life by several months. In that time, he was able to see all of his grandchildren one more time, even getting to watch his oldest granddaughter play soccer (a sport which he followed closely with all his granddaughters). He got to see those things because someone donated blood.

Also, my wife’s father received a heart transplant last fall and I know that donated blood was used during his multi-hour surgery. He is with us today because someone donated blood.

As a part of Recovery 2011, a national appeal during the month of February to recover the units of blood lost due to weather. As someone whose life has been impacted by blood donors I would encourage you to donate if you are able. If you are not, perhaps you can encourage someone to donate. You can sign up by going to www.redcrossblood.org.

I think sometimes it’s hard for others to relate to giving blood because they (thankfully) have never had someone close to them who was on the receiving end of a blood donation. In my “short” 42 years I’ve had it happen twice in the span of six months and because of that I plan to be a blood donor champion the rest of my life. It’s the best way I know how to express my gratitude for those who gave to help my family.

Thank you for reading this e-mail and considering giving the gift of life to someone else.”

Gratefully,
John L. Billimek
Major Gifts Officer
American Red Cross-Dallas Area Chapter

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