Category: Blood Services

Blood Recipient and Survivor: Jack Colwell’s Inspiring Journey from Sportscasting to Liver Transplant

From the sportscasting booth to the fight of his life, Jack Colwell’s journey is a testament to resilience, adjusting the game plan, and taking each day play-by-play.  

“It’s been quite a ride I must say,” says Colwell, blood recipient and liver transplant survivor. 

Jack Colwell recently celebrated his birthday and credits blood with helping save his life. Photo submitted.

As a radio sportscaster, Colwell – also known as Action Jack, has announced play-by-play calls for countless sports games, but never thought his own life’s playbook would include a cancer diagnosis.

Colwell had abdominal pain for three years before he received the news that he had end stage bile duct cancer. 

“I just felt something wasn’t right – my liver was deteriorating, and I found out I needed a liver transplant.” 

Colwell’s name was immediately put on the transplant list, and he started radiation and chemotherapy treatments. On December 23, 2023, Colwell got the call that a liver was available. “I was in surgery from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. on Christmas Eve morning,” says Colwell. “I needed quite a bit of blood – what a gift that was!” 

Thankful to blood donors for ensuring blood was available when he needed it, Colwell says “If you can do it, certainly do it! Someone is always in need.” 

Jack Colwell, who announces games as Action Jack, pictured outside the Red Cross bloodmobile at a blood drive his employer KWNG/KCUE in Red Wing, Minnesota recently hosted. 

Post transplant, Colwell is grateful he is still here to have the chance work, be a husband, to see his daughters get married, and hopefully to enjoy being a grandparent alongside his wife. “Cherish life and live every day to the max,” he says. “I’m living proof that blood helps save lives. It’s a big reason I’m still here.” 

A round of applause for Colwell who reminds us that in the great game of life, someone is always in need. Let’s answer the call!

Be a hero for patients like Jack. Appointments can be scheduled by downloading the free Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). To help reduce wait times, donors are encouraged to make appointments and complete the RapidPass online health history questionnaire at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass

 

Waterville, MN Community Unites for Successful Blood Drive After Flooding

Waterville, Minnesota, a community impacted by recent flooding and still recovering, came together to donate blood on Monday. “We have a lot of helpful people in our small community,” said Barb, a former Red Cross volunteer and blood donor who helped organize blood drives for nearly 24 years.

Barb, former Red Cross volunteer, Waterville, MN, Aug. 12, 2024.

The blood drive filled up quickly and they had to add appointments to accommodate those who wanted to roll up a sleeve. In fact, the community surpassed the blood drive goal – reaching 110% of expected donations.

The drive was sponsored by the high school student Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) group in the Watertown, Elysian and Morristown school district. The group tries to host five blood drives a year, and this was the first drive in Waterville since the flooding in June. The next drive is already scheduled for November.

“We try and make it fun!” exclaimed Tricia, the group’s advisor. Sometimes they have special T-shirts made, special treats for donors, or themes to make it more interesting. “We try to get 16 year-olds to become first-time donors.”

Red Cross volunteers Jocelyn, Tricia and Megan, Waterville, MN, Aug. 12, 2024.

Donors included Megan, a high school senior and Red Cross volunteer, who is already a Certified Nursing Assistant and plans to pursue a career in healthcare. “I started donating because it gave me another way to help people that really need it,” she says. “When someone is nervous about donating I just remind them of how they could be saving someone’s life.” Megan and Jocelyn, a student lead for the blood drive, helped check-in donors.

We’re amazed that people affected by their own disaster have stayed committed to helping others through blood donation this summer as we are facing an emergency shortage. Thank you, Waterville and surrounding areas for giving back in such a meaningful way!

Megan, blood door and Red Cross volunteer, Waterville, MN, Aug. 12, 2024

You can help, too. Click here to make an appointment to give and help patients counting on lifesaving blood products being available.

Kaleb’s story – embracing change

One year ago, the American Red Cross implemented updated Food and Drug Administration guidance that eliminated donor eligibility questions based on sexual orientation.

Meet Kaleb, an amazing Red Cross blood collection technician in the Minnesota and Dakotas Region. As a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, he’s on a mission to spread the word about how blood donation rules have changed to be more inclusive while keeping the blood supply safe. His rally call to action is loud and clear – “Roll up a sleeve and let your pride shine through every drop, show your rainbow strength and help save lives by donating blood,” he says.

“Roll up a sleeve and let your pride shine through every drop, show your rainbow strength and help save lives by donating blood.”

First inspired by his grandmother, a Red Cross nurse in the early 2,000’s, Kaleb became a blood donor when he was 17 years old and now donates blood and platelets. “I’m passionate about helping others, and blood donation is one great way to do that – I’ve donated 15 units so far,” he says.

Kaleb has turned his passion for helping others into a dream job where he quite literally helps save lives every day. “I know the blood we’re collecting helps save lives or gives patients more time with their loved ones,” says Kaleb, whose best friend’s mother needed blood during her battle with cancer. “I also love interacting with donors, especially first-time donors, who I can walk through the blood donation process and make them less nervous.”

Kaleb outside a Red Cross bloodmobile advocating for blood donation. Photo submitted.

Thanks to updated FDA guidelines, more people are now eligible to donate blood through a new inclusive screening process that expands donor eligibility and eliminates questions based on sexual orientation. “I hope that I am able to build awareness of this change so more people in the LGBTQ+ community know that they might be eligible to donate and make a difference too.”

Since the Red Cross implemented this change on August 7, 2023, countless newly eligible individuals have rolled up their sleeves to give blood, host blood drives and volunteer in the blood services mission of the American Red Cross.

A very excited Kaleb finishes his blood donation. Photo submitted.

Check out stories, including Kaleb’s, of the newly eligible donors who are now giving blood and hosting blood drives with the Red Cross on the Red Cross LGBTQ+ Blood Donor page. Be sure to check out the Interactive Story Map.

Flooding Resources: Summer 2024

AS OF TUESDAY, July 9, 2024

More than two weeks after floodwaters inundated parts of Minnesota and eastern South Dakota, neighbors, local community organizations and government partners continue to work together to help people recover from the extensive damage.

If you need help, please visit redcross.org/mndaks and click “Get Help,” or you can call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

  1. Shelter
  2. Flooding: What to do before, during and after Inundación: Qué hacer antes, durante y después
  3. Facebook Updates: Minnesota, South Dakota
  4. Red Cross Emergency App and Flood Safety
  5. How you can help
  6. CrisisCleanup.org

Shelter

Shelters are available for people displaced by recent flooding. Shelters provide essential resources, including food, water, emotional support and information. Click here for info on what to bring, services available and more.

The Village in Waterville (Partner Shelter)
205 N 1st St., Waterville, MN 56096

Flooding: What to do before, during and after

Inundación: Qué hacer antes, durante y después

Facebook Updates: Minnesota, South Dakota

Red Cross Emergency App and Flood Safety

📱 Red Cross Emergency App: To stay informed and prepared during severe weather, download the free Red Cross Emergency app. Customize 40 different weather alerts, toggle between English and Spanish, and ensure accessibility for people with disabilities. Text “GETEMERGENCY” to 90999 or find the app in your app store.

The Emergency app includes an “I’m Safe” feature that help people check on loved ones.  Search “American Red Cross” in app stores or go to redcross.org/apps. 

Turn around, don’t drown. Stay off the roads. If you must drive and encounter a flooded roadway while driving, turn around and go another way.   

How you can help

Support Red Cross Disaster Relief and help people affected by disasters like flooding and countless other crises by making a financial donation today.
Your gift enables the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from disasters big and small, like the Minnesota and South Dakota floods.

Donate online at RedCross.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-722-2767) or text REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.

The Red Cross encourages financial donations, which provide the quickest and most effective way to assist those in need. Please note that the Red Cross is not accepting donations of food, household items, or clothing, as these cannot be distributed by their teams.

Volunteer for disasters
Many people have expressed interest in volunteering to support our response efforts, and we are appreciative of the offers to assist. At this time, our trained Red Cross volunteers are working this disaster.

Help us pre-stage valuable volunteers for the next disasters to help your neighbors in need – from home fires to flooding and more. Put on a red vest and join us as a volunteer today to provide relief and hope when it matters most. Visit redcross.org/givetime to check out opportunities with your local chapter.

Donate blood
Unfortunately, the American Red Cross continues to address a concerning shortfall in lifesaving donations since late spring. If you are in an area not impacted by a disaster, please keep your appointment or schedule an appointment to roll up a sleeve and donate blood.

To make an appointment simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

CrisisCleanup.org

Home Cleanup Hotlines have been opened by CrisisCleanup.org to help survivors cleanup in Minensota and South Dakota. We anticipate that most volunteer groups will work through Friday, July 5. 2024. Survivors needing assistance can call 218-288-2213 in MN and 605-519-5413 in SD.

Flooding Resources: Summer 2024

AS OF FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2024

Floodwaters continue to impact our neighbors in southeast South Dakota and southern and northeast Minnesota. The Red Cross is closely monitoring weather updates and river crest forecasts, while trained disaster responders are assisting those in need. Please see below for resources.

If you need help, please visit redcross.org/mndaks and click “Get Help,” or you can call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

  1. Clean-up Kit Distribution
  2. Shelters and Temporary Evacuation Point
  3. Flooding: What to do before, during and after Inundación: Qué hacer antes, durante y después
  4. Facebook Updates: Minnesota, South Dakota
  5. Red Cross Emergency App and Flood Safety
  6. How you can help
  7. CrisisCleanup.org

Clean-up Kit Distribution

Friday, June 28, 2024

MINNESOTA

Nobles County
Prairie Justice Center
1530 Airport Road
Worthington, MN 56187
4 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Jackson County
Red Cross teams are driving around the community today with kits. If you don’t see us, clean-up kits are also available at our shelter in Jackson.
Jackson County Community High School (JCC HS)
1128 N Hwy., Jackson, MN 56143

Windom
Mobile distribution, 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Teams delivering kits throughout the community.

Outside Windom Arena
1480 8th Ave.
Windom, MN 56101
4 to 7 p.m.

SOUTH DAKOTA

Turner County
County Building
1055 E Sanborn St
Parker, SD 57053
10:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Saturday, June 29, 2024

Davison County
Mt. Vernon Public School
500 N Main St
Mt. Vernon, SD 57363
10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

City of Mitchell
612 N Main St
Mitchell, SD
10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.

Shelters and Temporary Evacuation Point

If you or anyone you know is affected by this situation, safe shelter is available. It’s crucial to have a safe place during emergencies.

Shelters and a Temporary Evacuation Point are available for people displaced by recent flooding. Shelters provide essential resources, including food, water, emotional support and information. Click here for info on what to bring, services available and more

MINNESOTA

Minnesota State Mankato, Crawford Hall
710 Maywood Ave, Mankato, MN 56001

Jackson County Community High School (JCC HS)
1128 N Hwy., Jackson, MN 56143

The Village in Waterville (Partner Shelter)
205 N 1st St., Waterville, MN 56096

Flooding: What to do before, during and after

Inundación: Qué hacer antes, durante y después

Facebook Updates: Minnesota, South Dakota

Red Cross Emergency App and Flood Safety

📱 Red Cross Emergency App: To stay informed and prepared during severe weather, download the free Red Cross Emergency app. Customize 40 different weather alerts, toggle between English and Spanish, and ensure accessibility for people with disabilities. Text “GETEMERGENCY” to 90999 or find the app in your app store.

The Emergency app includes an “I’m Safe” feature that help people check on loved ones.  Search “American Red Cross” in app stores or go to redcross.org/apps. 

Turn around, don’t drown. Stay off the roads. If you must drive and encounter a flooded roadway while driving, turn around and go another way.   

How you can help

Support Red Cross Disaster Relief and help people affected by disasters like flooding and countless other crises by making a financial donation today.
Your gift enables the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from disasters big and small, like the Minnesota and South Dakota floods.

Donate online at RedCross.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-722-2767) or text REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.

The Red Cross encourages financial donations, which provide the quickest and most effective way to assist those in need. Please note that the Red Cross is not accepting donations of food, household items, or clothing, as these cannot be distributed by their teams.

Volunteer for disasters
Many people have expressed interest in volunteering to support our response efforts, and we are appreciative of the offers to assist. At this time, our trained Red Cross volunteers are working this disaster.

Help us pre-stage valuable volunteers for the next disasters to help your neighbors in need – from home fires to flooding and more. Put on a red vest and join us as a volunteer today to provide relief and hope when it matters most. Visit redcross.org/givetime to check out opportunities with your local chapter.

Donate blood
Unfortunately, the American Red Cross continues to address a concerning shortfall in lifesaving donations since late spring. If you are in an area not impacted by a disaster, please keep your appointment or schedule an appointment to roll up a sleeve and donate blood.

To make an appointment simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

CrisisCleanup.org

Home Cleanup Hotlines have been opened by CrisisCleanup.org to help survivors cleanup in Minensota and South Dakota. We anticipate that most volunteer groups will work through Friday, July 5. 2024. Survivors needing assistance can call 218-288-2213 in MN and 605-519-5413 in SD.

Flooding Resources: Summer 2024

AS OF THURSDAY, JUNE 27, 2024

Floodwaters continue to impact our neighbors in southeast South Dakota and southern and northeast Minnesota. The Red Cross is closely monitoring weather updates and river crest forecasts, while trained disaster responders are assisting those in need. Please see below for resources.

If you need help, please visit redcross.org/mndaks and click “Get Help,” or you can call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

  1. Shelters and Temporary Evacuation Point
  2. Flooding: What to do before, during and after
  3. Inundación: Qué hacer antes, durante y después
  4. Facebook Updates: Minnesota, South Dakota
  5. Red Cross Emergency App and Flood Safety
  6. How you can help
  7. CrisisCleanup.org

Shelters and Temporary Evacuation Point

If you or anyone you know is affected by this situation, safe shelter is available. It’s crucial to have a safe place during emergencies.

Shelters and a Temporary Evacuation Point are available for people displaced by recent flooding. Shelters provide essential resources, including food, water, emotional support and information. Click here for info on what to bring, services available and more

MINNESOTA

Minnesota State Mankato, Crawford Hall
710 Maywood Ave, Mankato, MN 56001

Faribault Armory
3000 W Airport Rd, Faribault, MN 55021

Jackson County Community High School (JCC HS)
1128 N Hwy., Jackson, MN 56143

The Village in Waterville (Partner Shelter)
205 N 1st St., Waterville, MN 56096

SOUTH DAKOTA
Sioux Falls Expo Center/Lyon Fairgrounds
100 N. Lyon Blvd., Sioux Falls, SD 57107

Flooding: What to do before, during and after

Inundación: Qué hacer antes, durante y después

Facebook Updates: Minnesota, South Dakota

Red Cross Emergency App and Flood Safety

📱 Red Cross Emergency App: To stay informed and prepared during severe weather, download the free Red Cross Emergency app. Customize 40 different weather alerts, toggle between English and Spanish, and ensure accessibility for people with disabilities. Text “GETEMERGENCY” to 90999 or find the app in your app store.

The Emergency app includes an “I’m Safe” feature that help people check on loved ones.  Search “American Red Cross” in app stores or go to redcross.org/apps. 

Turn around, don’t drown. Stay off the roads. If you must drive and encounter a flooded roadway while driving, turn around and go another way.   

How you can help

Support Red Cross Disaster Relief and help people affected by disasters like flooding and countless other crises by making a financial donation today.
Your gift enables the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from disasters big and small, like the Minnesota and South Dakota floods.

Donate online at RedCross.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-722-2767) or text REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.

The Red Cross encourages financial donations, which provide the quickest and most effective way to assist those in need. Please note that the Red Cross is not accepting donations of food, household items, or clothing, as these cannot be distributed by their teams.

Volunteer for disasters
Many people have expressed interest in volunteering to support our response efforts, and we are appreciative of the offers to assist. At this time, our trained Red Cross volunteers are working this disaster.

Help us pre-stage valuable volunteers for the next disasters to help your neighbors in need – from home fires to flooding and more. Put on a red vest and join us as a volunteer today to provide relief and hope when it matters most. Visit redcross.org/givetime to check out opportunities with your local chapter.

Donate blood
Unfortunately, the American Red Cross continues to address a concerning shortfall in lifesaving donations since late spring. If you are in an area not impacted by a disaster, please keep your appointment or schedule an appointment to roll up a sleeve and donate blood.

To make an appointment simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

CrisisCleanup.org

Home Cleanup Hotlines have been opened by CrisisCleanup.org to help survivors cleanup in Minensota and South Dakota. We anticipate that most volunteer groups will work through Friday, July 5. 2024. Survivors needing assistance can call 218-288-2213 in MN and 605-519-5413 in SD.

Cindy Anderson: A Legacy of Service

After nearly six decades of volunteering for the American Red Cross, Cindy Anderson from Northfield, Minnesota, is passing the baton. When asked why now, Cindy, 90, said, “It’s time for a change. My mind is good, but my body is feeling its age – that pretty much sums it up!”

Cindy Anderson celebrates 57 years of volunteering with the Red Cross!

Not many people can say they’ve been with an organization for nearly 60 years, but Cindy can.

Recruited as a Red Cross volunteer in 1967 when she first moved to Northfield, she has since helped organize blood drives and recruit volunteers. With a background in pediatric nursing, she found a fit as a nurse volunteer at Red Cross blood drives, taking donors’ vital statistics like blood pressure and temperature. She continued to recruit other nurse volunteers until the Red Cross transitioned this role to a staff position.

Cindy’s role within the Red Cross evolved over the years, but one constant remained – the need for blood and volunteers. “Blood is always needed,” Cindy emphasizes. What began as two blood drives a year turned into 16 blood drives at multiple Northfield locations, including Culver’s, the Northfield Ballroom, various churches, and FiftyNorth Senior Center. “My husband has been encouraging me to step back for a couple of years,” Cindy shares with a giggle. “It’s finally time.”

The blood drives Cindy has helped organize have undoubtedly been responsible for thousands of blood donations helping countless patients in need of lifesaving blood products. One of her most memorable experiences was meeting a local blood donor whose wife and daughter both relied on monthly infusions that provided antibodies from the blood of healthy donors. “It’s so important. Someone right in our community relies heavily on blood donation every month,” she says.

When asked about the number of blood drives she’s helped organize and the number of volunteers she’s recruited, she chuckled and said, “I don’t want to take the time to figure that out!”

Cindy with fellow volunteers Sandy and Merilyn
(Pictured left to right: Sandy Pieri, Cindy Anderson, and Merilyn Calcutt)

Merilyn Calcutt, who has served as a greeter for blood drives at FortyNorth and worked alongside Cindy for the past 12 years since her own retirement, is now taking over as the blood program leader for that location. “It literally took three people to replace Cindy,” she exclaimed.

Sandy Pieri, another Red Cross disaster and blood drive volunteer, seconds that. “Cindy will be missed – it took three of us to cover what she did.”

But Cindy humbly replies, “It really doesn’t seem like much.”

Cindy’s third replacement, Barb Garbowski, will take over the drives at Culver’s. “Culver’s is a great partner and helps maintain a strong donor base in Northfield because were able to hold blood drives there every month,” Cindy adds.  “And the ‘pint for a pint’ coupon is such a sweet way to thank the blood donors.”

Cindy pictured with blood donor and long-time friend, Barbara Swartwoudt.

Barbara Swartwoudt, a blood donor, and long-time friend of Cindy’s, agrees. “We will miss Cindy at the blood drives – she was always pleasant and welcoming.”

Cindy and her husband recently sold their home and moved to an assisted living facility in Northfield. Cindy looks forward to doing crossword puzzles and reading more now that she’ll have some extra time on her hands. She also hopes to spend more time with her four children, four grandchildren, and five great-grandsons.

“I will miss the people,” says Cindy.

“We’re so grateful for Cindy’s 57 years of service with the Red Cross,” says Dayna Steinke, donor recruitment account manager, Red Cross Minnesota and Dakotas Region. “Cindy is an exceptionally generous person. Without dedicated volunteers like Cindy, we would not be able to fulfill our lifesaving mission.”

Cindy is thanked for her years of service by Dayna Steinke, donor recruitment account manager, at the blood drive held at FiftyNorth Senior Center on Feb. 21, 2024.

Join us in sending Cindy off with warm wishes and immense gratitude for her dedicated years of service!

Be like Cindy! You can support the lifesaving mission of the Red Cross by becoming a blood drive volunteer. Blood donor ambassadors help greet, check-in, and thank blood donors to ensure they have a positive donation experience. Visit RedCross.org/GiveTime to sign up today!

Make an appointment to give blood or platelets now by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

Story by Sue Thesenga, Communications Manager, Minnesota and Dakotas Region.

💝 Hearts Filled With Gratitude

Before undergoing surgery for a routine ear procedure in November 2021, Matt Alford’s doctor wanted the 35-year-old father to have a pre-surgery physical. Concerns about anesthesia and a potential hereditary heart condition that his mother had led his doctor to take the extra precaution.

Despite being evaluated for a congenital heart defect as a child, and asymptomatic growing up, tests revealed Matt did indeed have a heart valve that needed to be repaired without delay.

“It was a big shock to us that he would need surgery to repair it,” says his wife, Katie Alford.

Matt, a farmer from south central Minnesota, hoped that he could get past the spring planting season and have surgery that summer. However, doctors were not comfortable delaying surgery due to the severity of his condition.

Matt, amidst severe fatigue, gave a reassuring thumbs up to Katie right before he received a
blood transfusion. (Photo submitted)

On March 22, 2022, Matt, underwent bicuspid aortic valve replacement surgery. Following surgery, Matt’s condition deteriorated quickly due to excessive blood loss and doctors were concerned his vital organs were in jeopardy. He received two units of blood that evening and was closely monitored by doctors until his condition stabilized. 

The following days Matt was terribly weak and tired. Four days post-op he needed an additional blood transfusion for symptomatic anemia to give him the strength his body needed to recover.

Katie an avid blood donor herself, recalls thinking “wow, I’m actually going to see how all of this works!”

Within a couple of hours Katie could visually see the difference. “I kid you not – he went for a walk for his therapy and the staff had to hold him back from walking further!”

A determined Matt walked out of the hospital following heart valve repair surgery on his own.
(Photo submitted)

Matt was discharged from the hospital just five days after surgery and was able to walk out to the car on his own. “We were concerned about the kids bumping him too much and forgetting that daddy was still recovering,” says Katie. So, Matt spent the next three weeks rehabbing at Katie’s grandparent’s house who were away for the winter months in a warmer climate.

Matt is grateful to be alive and currently has no physical restrictions. “Without the generosity of blood donors, Matt might not be here to be a husband, and father to our three children,” says Katie. “We are so thankful for God’s provision throughout his whole journey and are forever indebted to the doctors, nurses, and blood donors who all have forever impacted our lives.”

Reunited with his family following heart surgery, Matt, along with wife Katie, enjoyed reading stories with their children Ben (5), Noah (2) and Allie (3 months). (Photo submitted)

“I’ve witnessed how blood has made a difference,” says Katie. “I started donating blood in high school because my grandfather needed it while being treated for leukemia. It gave us more time with him – and now, it helped save my husband’s life!”

The Alfords are both motivated to help pay it forward. “This is something near and dear to our hearts,” says Katie, who is organizing a blood drive in her community. Although blood donation wasn’t on Matt’s radar before his heart surgery, he has since become a donor and will be making his second blood donation at Katie’s blood drive.

“In my case having blood on the shelves was the difference between
life and death.”

– Matt Alford, blood recipient

“In my case having blood on the shelves was the difference between life and death,” says Matt. “We’re all busy but taking a small amount of time to donate is an incredible way to really change someone’s life – like someone did for me.”

Every two seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood. The American Red Cross must collect enough blood and platelets every day to meet the needs of mothers experiencing complications following childbirth; premature babies; accident, trauma and burn victims; heart surgery and organ transplant patients; and those receiving treatment for leukemia, cancer or sickle cell diseases.

You can make a lifesaving difference by donating blood. Make an appointment to give blood or platelets now by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

Story by Minnesota and Dakotas communications manager Sue Thesenga

Just Two Ounces

Sometimes many pints of blood are needed to save a life. In some cases, it’s only one or two ounces of the right blood at the right time that makes a critical, lifesaving difference.  

Tess and Keziah (Kezzy), July 2020. Submitted photo.

Four years ago on July 29, 2020, deep in the heart of the Covid pandemic, Keziah (Kezzy, pictured above), was nearly ready to face the world as a newborn. But at around 38 weeks, her mom Tess noticed movement in her belly slowed and then stopped.

“We called the clinic and they said to come in right now,” said Tess while remembering the harrowing moments before baby Kezzy was born. An ultrasound and other tests showed no movement. There was some breathing, but all indications for life were low. Every contraction brought down Kezzy’s heart rate. A Cesarean (c-section) delivery was imminent for saving her life.  

“They pulled her out and she cried right away and was very much alive, but she was very white,” recalled Tess. The pale skin was a serious sign. A nurse suggested a red cell blood test. The results showed low hemoglobin. Kezzy was in a critical state of survival and needed transfusion. Nick, Kezzy’s dad, held her before nurses took her away.   

“There were 15 people in the room,” said Nick. “It was scary but they said, ‘we know what’s going on.” Kezzy was rushed to a neo-natal intensive care unit (NICU) where she received two blood transfusions. During that time, all signs of life headed in the right direction. “Holding a baby that’s barely alive and seeing two bags flow into your baby over two days – you’re always going to remember that,” he added.   

It turns out that Kezzy had lost a third of her blood volume in utero. While in her mother’s belly, her blood was flowing backwards into Tess in the last couple days before birth. Knowing the signs and providing the right treatment happens between a critical period days and hours that could mean death or life.  

Nick and Keziah (Kezzy). Submitted photo.

“It was such a quick turn-around after the transfusion,” said Tess, “For me it felt like a miracle.”  

Today, thanks in large part to blood donors, Kezzy is a healthy and happy toddler who goes to preschool. “My daughter is three years old now and healthy, cheerful, and chatty. She brings joy wherever she goes!” said Tess. “I’d add that she’s very smart, loves jokes and games, and is a great hiking companion,” said Nick.  

The experience has turned Tess and Nick into blood donors. Nick donates platelets which are needed for clotting and have a short shelf-life while Tess donates whole blood, something she’s new to doing but wanted to do for a long time so that others could have the same chance that Kezzy had.  

“I’m grateful for her enthusiasm, thoughtful little insights, and playful nature. She rounds out our family in a special way.”  

Keziah (Kezzy) and her siblings. Submitted photo.

Make an appointment to give blood or platelets now by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

Story by Minnesota and Dakotas communications manager Lynette Nyman

5 Red Cross Resolutions you can do in ONE hour (or less)

As we step into a new year, many of us are looking for ways to make a positive impact in our lives and the lives of others. The American Red Cross offers a variety of quick and meaningful ways to make a difference. Here are five resolutions you can accomplish in one hour or less, not only benefiting those in need but also enhancing your own well-being.

Cassie and Ben, parents of 3-year-old Oliver who is battling kidney cancer, recently rolled up a sleeve at a blood drive held in their son’s honor. Oliver has needed multiple blood transfusions during his treatment so they are helping pay it forward. Every donation helps patients like Oliver.
  1. Donate Blood
    One of the most significant contributions you can make is donating blood – and it’s simple. In just about one hour, you can make a real difference in the lives of patients requiring life-saving transfusions. It may be the only resolution that includes cookies. Schedule on our free app and follow your blood donation’s journey every step of the way as it makes its way to a hospital to help patients in need.

  2. Learn Hands-Only CPR Learning hands-only CPR is a quick, vital skill that could save a life. The Red Cross offers online resources and local classes that can teach you this life-saving technique in under 30 minutes. By knowing how to perform hands-only CPR, you can help keep a person alive until professional help arrives. Bonus: have fun practicing the rhythm by checking out these “Next Gen Life Beats” friends at the Australian Red Cross. And yes, it includes a Taylor Swift song.

  3. Check Smoke Alarms and Practice an Escape Plan
    Ensuring your home is prepared for emergencies is crucial. Take a few minutes to test your smoke alarms and replace any batteries if needed. Then, spend some time with those you live with drafting and practicing a home escape plan. Knowing what to do in the event of a fire can significantly increase your chances of safely escaping.  And you probably haven’t checked your smoke alarms since last time you burnt pizza. Check out how-to videos and other resources at SoundTheAlarm.org/MNDAKS.

  4. Find your Fit, Take the Volunteer Quiz
    The American Red Cross depends on volunteers to carry out its humanitarian work. In less than an hour, you can explore various opportunities online and sign up for something that resonates with your skills and interests. Whether it’s assisting at a local blood drive, helping with disaster response, or supporting military families, your time and effort can make a huge impact. Punch in your zip, take a our quick quiz and we’ll match you up with cool opportunities near you.

  5.  Make a Gift in Someone’s Honor
    Making a charitable donation in honor of a loved one is a meaningful way to recognize special occasions. It’s a simple process that takes just a few minutes online. Your gift can support various Red Cross initiatives, from disaster relief to supporting military families, and it’s a beautiful way to spread kindness and compassion. Bonus, warm and fuzzy feelings for you and them. Visit RedCross.org/MNDAKS to make a gift.

As you consider your resolutions for the year, remember that even the smallest acts can have a significant impact. By dedicating an hour or less to any of these Red Cross activities, you’re not only helping others but also fostering your own health and happiness*.

Here’s to a year filled with kindness, compassion, and community support!

For more resolution ideas, RedCross.org/MNDAKS

*From the Mayo Clinic Health System, “Kindness has been shown to. increase self-esteem, empathy and compassion, and improve mood. It can decrease blood pressure and cortisol, a hormone directly correlated with stress levels. People who give of themselves in a balanced way also tend to be healthier and live longer.”