Tag: blood donation

A Legacy of Service: Honoring Woody Woodward

Always greeting donors with ‘I’m having a great day,’ Woody inspired a community through his service.

For nearly five years, Woody Woodward volunteered with the American Red Cross, helping organize and run blood drives at the American Legion in Fairmont, Minnesota, where he always welcomed donors with a smile and a warm greeting.

A proud U.S. Navy veteran, Woody believed deeply in helping others, especially fellow veterans, and saw volunteering at blood drives as another way to serve. Though he never needed blood himself, he understood the constant need.

Being the blood program leader meant the world to Woody, especially because it was something he shared with his wife Joann. She recalls how they enjoyed putting up posters around town to advertise each blood drive. On drive days, Woody welcomed donors at the registration table while Joann made sure everyone felt cared for in the refreshment area — offering snacks, conversation, and encouragement to sign up for the next blood drive. In his later years, when mobility became difficult and he relied on a wheelchair, blood drives became more than volunteer work; they became a lifeline.

“Woody loved greeting people at the registration table,” Joann shared. “He looked forward to every blood drive. It was one of his greatest pleasures and was his way of pushing back against what was happening with his own health.”

Woody lived with congestive heart failure and diabetes and carried the long-term effects of Agent Orange exposure from his military service. Even so, he never let illness define him. Instead, he showed up to every blood drive with a smile, a greeting, and a genuine happiness in seeing people walk through the door.

“When asked how he was doing, he’d always reply, ‘Great — I’m having a good day,’” Joann said.

Woody formed friendships with regular donors and Red Cross staff alike, quietly becoming a familiar and comforting presence — a beacon of kindness in the community.

Woody passed away on October 23, 2025. To honor his legacy of service, the next blood drive, scheduled for April 17 at the American Legion, will be held in his memory. Coincidentally, the drive falls on his birthday, making the tribute even more meaningful. “Woody would have been so proud to have this blood drive held in his honor,” Joann said. “It’s exactly where he would want to be. He’ll be there in spirit.”

Blake Mathison of the Red Cross blood collections team grew to know Woody well. “Woody was known and loved by every donor who came through the doors,” Mathison said. “He went out of his way to greet first-time donors, joke with them, and make them feel welcome. His glowing personality was contagious. When he passed away the night before his October blood drive last year, word quickly spread. As regular donors came in that day, it was clear many of them had an extra reason to be there.”

At Woody’s request, Joann will now step into the role of American Legion blood program leader, continuing the work they once shared side by side. “I’m honored to carry this on for him,” she said. “And I have so much support from his fellow veterans.”

The blood drive held in his memory honors a man whose heart for service never wavered and whose belief in helping others continues to inspire. In Woody’s honor, we invite others to give — and help make it a good day for someone else, just as he did.

Visit RedCrossBlood.org, use the Red Cross Blood Donor App or call 1-800-RED CROSS to schedule your donation appointment.

The Gift That Returned Her Tomorrow

“Who is this person whose blood is making me feel better? What do they like to do? Could I ever meet them to say thank you?”

Those questions echoed in Elizabeth’s mind countless times during her fight for survival.

When she first felt sick on an April morning in 2021, Elizabeth, from Fairmont, Minnesota, assumed it was food poisoning—just nausea, fatigue, and stomach pain. But when the symptoms lingered, a coworker gently urged her to take it seriously: “Food poisoning doesn’t last that long.” Still unconvinced, Elizabeth stopped by the school nurse at Fairmont High School, where she works as a special education teacher. She expected a brief check-in and instructions to rest.

Instead, the nurse told her, firmly and without hesitation, to go to the emergency room immediately.

Initial tests and pain medication at the hospital offered some reassurance, but by Monday everything changed. A phone call instructed her to get to Rochester immediately. Within twenty-four hours, she was starting chemotherapy. The diagnosis: acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

Elizabeth receiving chemotherapy (Photo submitted)

Eight months of treatment began. Her first hospital stay stretched twenty-one days. She walked out on her daughter’s sixteenth birthday—on Mother’s Day—and in remission. The chemo had worked fast, wiping out the cancer cells, but it had also wiped out nearly all of her healthy blood cells.

In that first round alone, Elizabeth needed four to five blood transfusions, plus countless platelet transfusions. As treatment continued, the numbers climbed far beyond anything she ever imagined: more than 120 blood transfusions and nearly 200 platelet transfusions.

Elizabeth, pictured with her oldest daughter Tiffany, receiving a lifesaving blood transfusion—one of more than 120 blood transfusions and nearly 200 platelet transfusions that gave her the strength she needed to continue her chemotherapy treatments. (Photo submitted)

There were days when her blood counts sank so low she could barely stay awake. She remembers receiving a transfusion and, within thirty minutes, feeling her strength return. She tried to stay upbeat—even playful—asking the nurses, “So… is this one going to give me powers?” Humor became her shield against fear.

Because of her rare Rh-negative blood, she often needed specially typed platelets. She would be admitted for days at a time, waiting and hoping that these gifts from strangers—people she would never meet—would take.

She wondered constantly about them.

Who is this person whose blood is making me feel better? What do they like to do? Could I ever meet them to say thank you?

By December 2021, Elizabeth had completed her final chemo treatment. She stepped into survivorship the same way she had entered treatment—determined. This May marked four years since her first remission, and December marks four years cancer-free.

Elizabeth and her daughter Makenzie celebrate her final chemo session, with the same humor that became her shield against fear—proving that laughter really is the best medicine!
(Photo submitted)

Long before she became a patient, Elizabeth had been a donor herself. She started giving blood and plasma at sixteen, encouraged by her mother, who worked in a nursing home and often spoke about ordinary people quietly helping others simply because someone had to. As a high school athlete in the late ’90s, donation felt like just a good thing to do—never something she imagined she would one day depend on for her life.

So when the blood drive coordinator at Fairmont High School retired, Elizabeth didn’t hesitate. She stepped in to lead the program. “These donations saved my life,” she says.

She can’t donate anymore, but she volunteers with the Red Cross because she knows what’s at stake. Somewhere, right now, another parent, another teacher, another human being is lying in a hospital bed waiting for blood—blood that may determine whether they get to see another birthday, another Mother’s Day, another tomorrow.

Her four daughters now donate—or plan to. They watched their mother fight for her life. They saw how every transfusion lifted her back to herself. One of her daughters, an O-negative universal donor, once said, “If someone saved Mom with their blood, the least I can do is give mine to someone else.”

Elizabeth’s daughter Alyssa made her first blood donation in December 2025, keeping it light through the nerves and paying it forward for her mom. “I’m amazing because amazing people donate blood to help save lives. I guess that makes us superheroes!” (Photo submitted)

Elizabeth is proud—not just because her girls donate, but because they understand. “Awareness is learning,” she says. “You can’t expect people to do better if they don’t know.”

So she teaches, just as she does every day in her classroom. When she stands before students at Fairmont High—whether she’s explaining an assignment or sharing her story about blood donation—she knows not everyone will take the message to heart. But some will. And those few may one day help save a life.

She shares her story not to seek sympathy, but to spark action. “If telling my story encourages even one more person to donate, then it’s worth it,” she says.

The Lowry family at Disneyland – December 2021. (Photo submitted)

Elizabeth is alive today because someone donated—someone she will never meet, someone who didn’t know they were saving her. She is living proof of the impact a single donor can make. Now she leads student blood drives, raises awareness, and inspires a new generation of donors, determined to honor the strangers who once saved her life by paying that gift forward.

The Lowry family in Myrtle Beach – June 2025. (Photo submitted)

Your donation could mean the difference between life and loss—for a patient, a parent, a teacher, a mother or a friend. It only takes an hour. It can give someone another tomorrow.

The American Red Cross is facing a severe blood shortage as requests from hospitals exceed the available supply of blood. Donors of all blood types, especially those with types O, A negative and B negative blood and those giving platelets, are urged to give now to help people who rely on transfusions for medical care.

Schedule your donation today at RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS. Don’t wait. Someone’s life depends on it.

Knox’s story: A young life made brighter by donors

Every transfusion Knox receives is more than just blood. It brings laughter, play, and the simple joy of being a kid.

Knox is the sixth child in his family. His parents, Jessica and Andy, expected another healthy baby – just like his five older siblings. But from the moment Knox arrived, his journey was different. He needed NICU care immediately, and at only two weeks old, he received his first blood transfusion because of a rare disorder that causes his red blood cells to die off far too quickly.

You can see it happen – superhero fuel in action. As Knox receives his transfusion, color returns to his cheeks and his spark comes rushing back. (Photo submitted)

Life for Knox moves in cycles. As his blood levels drop, so does his energy. Headaches, pale skin, leg aches, insomnia, and irritability slowly take over. His parents watch his spark fade, knowing it’s his body pleading for help. Then comes the blood transfusion – and everything changes.

“His cheeks become rosy again. His energy returns. He’s singing in the car, laughing, playing…” says his mom. Nurses see the transformation too as he leaves the hospital each month, but for Knox’s family, it feels nothing short of magic – a reminder of what just one donor can do.

Knox is a typical, energetic four-year-old boy most of the time. “He loves basketball and soccer. He’s always ready to shoot hoops on his Little Tikes set or kick a ball in the yard with his brothers,” Jessica says.

Knox, a typical young boy chasing soccer dreams — and a fighter who depends on blood transfusions for the energy to play. (Photo submitted)

Then the fatigue hits, and he crashes. The child who was just running and smiling becomes quieter, tired, and withdrawn. Yet through it all, he never complains.

“He never asks ‘Why me?’” Jessica shares. “He doesn’t compare himself to his siblings or focus on what he can’t do. He just lives life the only way he knows how – happy and full of spirit. Most people who meet him would never guess what he faces.”

Full of spirit and happiness, Knox lives life to the fullest, despite the challenges no one can see. (Photo submitted)

For Knox’s parents, this journey has transformed what giving means. Before Knox, they had never donated blood – they simply didn’t know how life-changing one donation could be. Now they see each unit of blood as a lifeline: an hour or less of someone’s time that gives their son weeks of energy, joy, and the chance to simply be a kid.

“We never donated before Knox was the one in need,” Jessica regrettably admits. “We didn’t know. But now we do. We understand that blood donors give families like ours the most priceless gift: time, energy, childhood, and life,” she adds.

Their hope in sharing Knox’s story is simple: to build awareness and inspire others to give. “Somewhere out there,” Jessica says, “another child just like Knox will walk out of a hospital with rosy cheeks and a second chance – all because someone took an hour to donate.”

The Dahlberg family (photo submitted)

Stories like Knox’s remind us that blood donations are more than a medical need — they are a lifeline for families facing serious illness. One donation can restore strength, bring hope, and give children moments of normalcy they deserve. To schedule a blood donation appointment, use the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). One hour can help save lives and change a family’s future.

Madelyn’s Mission:   Turning Survival into Service 

Madelyn recalls dyeing her hair purple a few days before starting treatment. It was a way of taking back control before chemotherapy, a flash of color and courage before everything changed. A few months before beginning her junior year at Watertown-Mayer High School, she was learning words no teenager expects to learn – port, infusion, transfusion.        

Madelyn, in the hospital with her vibrant purple hair — a bold choice before starting chemo, reclaiming a bit of control in a time when so much felt uncertain. (Photo submitted)

Just four days after her 16th birthday, she started treatment. While other teenagers were focusing on getting their driver’s license, she was looking forward to finishing chemotherapy that October. Soon it was homework and hospital visits, all during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

During treatment for Hodgkin’s lymphoma, Madelyn benefitted from donated blood to get through her chemotherapy.  

“Getting transfusions were incredibly beneficial for my treatment. The energy was back, and I could feel more like myself again.” 

Madelyn beams as she holds a sign celebrating a milestone hard-earned through courage, resilience, and hope. (Photo submitted)

Looking back, she says it feels surreal to realize how far she’s come since then. Recently, she reached a milestone she once only hoped for – five years cancer-free.  

Now a senior theater major at the University of Minnesota, Madelyn carries that experience with quiet strength and a clear sense of purpose. She’s using her story to encourage others through the Abbott and the Big Ten’s “We Give Blood” competition, a friendly way for universities to inspire more students to donate. At the University of Minnesota Red Cross Blood Drive, Madelyn had fun with “Buddy the Blood Drop” and inspired classmates to donate more than 100 units of lifesaving blood.  And this December, right in the middle of finals week, she’s hosting her own blood drive on campus. It’s already almost full. 

Madelyn smiles alongside Buddy the Blood Drop at the University of Minnesota’s 2025 Homecoming Blood Drive — giving back to the community that once helped her through her own journey. (Photo: Carrie Carlson-Guest, American Red Cross)

Madelyn is more than a survivor – she’s an artist, a leader and a voice in the community. Between rehearsals and classes, she still makes time to volunteer and share her story. What drives her is connection, that deep sense of community that helped her heal and keeps her giving back. “For me, that’s a big driving factor in any work I do,” she says. “So many people have been there for me, and community is important, creating community in any way we can is important.”

Madelyn and her friend Rachel smile for a quick photo in their Gopher maroon & gold.
Between classes and campus life, Madelyn still finds time to advocate for blood donation, encouraging others to give the gift that once helped save her life. (Photo: Submitted)

She knows firsthand that every donation matters. “There are probably patients who didn’t get it in time,” she says. “Giving blood is a method of creating community, and I don’t know that it’s always seen as that, but I think it’s a really important way of doing something that helps people.” 

That understanding drives her advocacy for blood donation among her peers. She sees it not as an act of charity, but one of connection, something that takes less than an hour and can change a life. 

Madelyn is determined to create community by raising awareness and closing the gap in blood donation. By sharing her story, she’s inspiring change — one student, one act of generosity at a time. (Photo: Carrie Carlson-Guest, American Red Cross)

Every day, patients across the U.S. rely on blood and platelet donors to survive – yet only about 3 percent of eligible people donate blood each year. Madelyn is determined to change that. By sharing her story, she hopes to close that gap – one student, one act of generosity at a time. 

“Creating community matters,” she says. “And this is a simple way to do it.” 

Roll up a sleeve to donate and help change a life, like Madelyn’s.  

Madelyn shared her inspiring story on WCCO-TV Sunday Morning – view here.
 
Schedule an appointment to donate blood or platelets using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). 

Because of Ryker: A family’s lifesaving commitment

Amy Slater’s journey as a blood donor began two years ago, sparked by a deeply personal experience: her four-year-old nephew, Ryker, was diagnosed with leukemia. Watching him go through treatment, she quickly realized that blood donation isn’t just a kind gesture — it’s a lifeline.

“Ryker needed multiple transfusions throughout his treatment just to have the strength to keep fighting,” Amy recalls. “That changed everything for me. I saw firsthand how critical donated blood was to his recovery.”

Amy stands strong beside her nephew Ryker, who is bravely battling leukemia. Picture submitted.

Since that moment, Amy has become a passionate advocate for blood donation. At Federated Insurance, where she works, she actively supports the company’s blood drives, held three times a year. She never misses a chance to donate — and always encourages her coworkers to join her.

“It only takes a little bit of your time, and it’s absolutely worth it,” she says. “The staff are so kind and professional — they make the whole experience smooth and meaningful.”

Amy proudly donates blood in support of her brave nephew, Ryker, who is currently undergoing treatment for leukemia. Her donation is one small way to help him in his courageous fight.
Photo: Sue Thesenga/American Red Cross

Though Ryker is now cancer-free, his journey left a lasting impact on the entire family. “I had never donated blood before his diagnosis,” Amy shares. “But once I saw the difference it made in someone I love, I knew I had to keep going.”

As a mother of two, Amy feels the importance of donation even more deeply. “I can’t imagine being told one of my own kids had cancer — and then finding out there might not be blood available,” she says. “That’s why I donate. That’s why I keep encouraging others to step up.”

Alissa donates blood for the first time in honor of her son Ryker. Right by her side is her stepmom Kim, offering love, support, and a whole lot of encouragement.
Photo: Sue Thesenga/American Red Cross

At this year’s Rock ‘N Roll Up Your Sleeve Blood Drive in Mankato, Amy’s dedication became a family affair. She was joined by her sister and Ryker’s mother, Alissa, and their father and stepmother, Tim and Kim — all eager to give back. For Alissa, it was her very first-time donating blood.

Alissa donates blood for the first time, inspired by her son Ryker’s leukemia treatment. A little nervous at first, she’s all smiles, proud to give back in such a meaningful way.
Photo: Sue Thesenga/American Red Cross

“I was a little nervous at first,” Alissa admits. “But it was easier than I expected. After seeing Ryker receive blood during his treatment, I knew I could do it and I’m so glad I did — having my family there made it even more meaningful.”

Their motivation runs deep. Ryker is nearing the end of his treatment. On September 18, he’ll receive his final dose of liquid chemotherapy — a powerful milestone for a resilient little boy and a hopeful family.

“I truly believe every blood donor is a blessing. If you can donate, just do it. You could be helping save someone’s life — it made a lifesaving difference for Ryker.”

Amy, Alissa, Tim, and Kim proudly show off their PEANUTS Snoopy T-shirts after donating blood — all Because of Ryker. This family’s lifesaving commitment is a powerful tribute to the brave little boy at the heart of it all. Photo: Sue Thesenga/American Red Cross

Stories like this remind us that donating blood is a testament to the power of family, community, compassion, and the courage it takes to care.

You can help save lives, too. Eligible individuals are encouraged to schedule a blood or platelet donation appointment by using the Red Cross Blood Donor app, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800- RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

Nolan the Heart Warrior: A Story of Strength, Survival, and Giving Back

Nolan arrived 2.5 weeks early, a healthy, 8-pound, 10-ounce baby boy. But within hours, the joy of his birth turned to fear. His mother, Sara Jutz, sensed something wasn’t right. Together with her husband, Joe, they pushed for closer observation. Trusting their instincts and speaking up made all the difference, that decision ultimately saved Nolan’s life.

Newborn Nolan made an early entrance, arriving 2.5 weeks ahead of schedule and weighing in at a healthy 8 pounds, 10 ounces. Photo submitted.

Doctors diagnosed Nolan with a serious congenital heart defect: a coarctation of the aorta, a narrowing of one of the heart’s main arteries. Just 10 hours after birth, he was rushed by ambulance to Children’s Hospital in Minneapolis. At only four days old, Nolan underwent his first major surgery. Surgeons accessed his heart through his back and used a Gore-Tex (synthetic) patch to widen the narrowed artery. During that operation, Nolan received his first blood transfusion, one of many he would need. That donated blood played a critical role in saving his life.

Nolan recovered quickly and was able to go home on his ninth day of life. As he grew, his spirited personality and big heart, both literally and figuratively, became his trademarks. At age six, he underwent a second procedure. Since the synthetic patch placed earlier couldn’t grow with him, doctors used a balloon catheter to stretch it and improve blood flow. The minimally invasive procedure was a success, and Nolan bounced back to his usual self within days.

By the time he was 11, Nolan was thriving. Though he saw his cardiologist regularly and understood he’d never “outgrow” his condition, that never held him back. Active, strong, and fiercely determined, Nolan proudly embraced life as a heart warrior. He even led his elementary school in fundraising for the American Heart Association, raising more money than anyone else.

Nolan, Eli, and Katelyn were each born with different heart defects. Only Nolan needed surgery, but their resilience unites them. Photo submitted.

His journey is made even more remarkable by his family’s story. Nolan’s two younger siblings were also born with congenital heart defects, each different, each unique. While Nolan required surgeries, his siblings have not needed medical interventions. Doctors remain unsure why all three children were affected, but what is clear is the strength and resilience of the family.

The Jutz family has long been dedicated to supporting their community, but Nolan’s experiences ignited a deeper sense of purpose: a personal commitment to give back. Watching his mom organize a blood drive, motivated in part by her own father’s need for weekly transfusions, Nolan jumped in to help. He manned the registration table, witnessed firsthand the importance of blood donation, and knew he wanted to do more.

Following the success of last summer’s blood drive, Nolan and Sara set out to organize another, this time at Nolan’s middle school. They transformed his personal journey into a powerful mission to raise awareness and inspire others to make a life-saving difference.

There is a lot that goes into organizing a blood drive, but Nolan’s greatest test came on April 18.

Pictured with his parents, Nolan recovered in the hospital after a lifesaving procedure that required 18 units of blood – April, 2025. Photo submitted.

During what was expected to be a routine stent placement, Nolan’s aortic valve ruptured, triggering cardiac arrest that lasted nearly 20 minutes. As blood rapidly filled his chest cavity, his left lung collapsed. In an urgent fight to save his life, doctors performed emergency surgery, relying on chest compressions to place the seven stents needed to repair the valve. Nolan required 18 units of blood that day, blood made available thanks to the selfless donations of others. That generosity is what saved his life.

Incredibly, just six weeks later, Nolan was back on the baseball field with his friends. His family, still overwhelmed by that day, speaks of how the experience changed them. “When you hear ‘18 units of blood,’ it hits different when it’s your child,” Sara said. “You don’t realize how much one small body can need, or how vital it is that the blood is there.”

Just six weeks after emergency surgery and 18 units of blood, Nolan is back and ready to hit the baseball field! Photo submitted.

Today, at 14 years old, Nolan is more than a survivor. He’s a fighter, an advocate, and a leader. He’s a student, a friend, an athlete, a big brother, and a boy whose strength has already changed so many lives. And he’s not done yet.

On June 30, family and friends supported a blood drive organized by Nolan and his mother at his middle school. Nolan greeted donors at the registration desk before joining his siblings for a well-earned lunch break. Each donor received a copy of Nolan’s story and was encouraged to share it to help raise awareness about the ongoing need for blood donations.

On June 30th, family and friends came together to donate blood at the drive Nolan and his mother organized at his middle school. Their hope was to collect enough to give back, to pay it forward for the many donations that once helped save Nolan’s life. They collected 41 pints of lifesaving blood – each one a testament to the power of giving and the impact of Nolan’s story.

Nolan continues to raise awareness and encourage others to donate blood, to give the gift of life, because he understands better than most just how vital it truly is.

He is, and always will be, a heart warrior.

The Jutz family. Photo submitted.

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).

My Blood Donation Story – The Power of Red

By Mary Patterson, Minnesota and Dakotas Region digital communications volunteer

When I first started high school, a banner in our cafeteria for the school’s fall blood drive caught my eye. I wasn’t old enough to donate, and I wasn’t yet part of the student groups organizing it. By my junior year, all that changed.

In the fall of 2021, I joined the Student Council and become a member of the National Honor Society. My math teacher, Ms. Arnold, was the advisor for both of these groups. On the agenda of the first student council meeting was the topic of the fall blood drive. Ms. Arnold shared her personal story about donating blood in memory of her father, who had been a lifelong blood donor after receiving a blood transfusion following a motorcycle accident.

I had volunteered in various ways before but never felt a spark or drive to a specific cause. However, I was eager to complete my service hours, and the blood drive sounded like a great way to get started.

Mary Patterson gives a thumbs up during a successful blood donation – December, 2024. (Photo submitted.)

Having turned 16 in 2020, I had to ask my parents’ permission to donate at the drive. Minnesota is one of 37 states to allow 16-year-old blood donors! With their blessing, I registered to donate and signed up to volunteer at the drive.

I woke up nervous the day of the drive. I had made sure to sleep well the night before and eat a good meal before heading to school. But what if the needle hurt a lot? What if I fainted? In the end, I felt completely well after my donation. We wrapped up the day with 71 donors and 217 lives saved!

“Besides the ‘good feels’ of being a teacher, this is one of the things I am most proud of – teaching the next generation to help people around them, even those they don’t know, is so important,” said Ms. Arnold. “Donating blood is something almost everyone can do so I encourage all my eligible students to do it. I know some students volunteer just so they can get out of class, but hopefully a habit is starting to form.”

I was eligible to donate again at the Spring 2022 blood drive, no longer requiring parental permission at age 17. This time, however, I ended up on a mat on the gym floor, dizzy and pale. A few weeks later, a letter from the Red Cross arrived in the mail explaining that I had an iron deficiency and was now ineligible to donate for one year. While this did explain the drastic difference in my donations, I was incredibly disappointed, as I had just been eligible to donate a few short months before. Not only that, what if this deficiency lasted so long I couldn’t donate again? Despite this, I knew how it had felt to give my time as well as my blood, so I was determined to remain involved in the school drives, taking volunteer shifts during my lunch hour at the sign-up table and helping donors at the drives feel at ease both during and after donating.

From my first two donations, I learned three valuable things: I had a health condition, but it was treatable, and, most importantly, I wouldn’t have known if I hadn’t tried to donate blood. I was committed to donating again: I adjusted my diet to include higher iron intake, got cleared by my physician, and fulfilled the one year waiting period, I signed up to donate again, and was successful! I was so relieved to know I was healthy enough to donate again, as I went into this donation attempt even more nervous than my first. Since regaining eligibility, I donate close to every 56 days as possible.

Miss Dakota County volunteers at the University of Minnesota Red Cross Club blood drive, lending her support to this important cause. (Photo submitted.)

In my first year of college, I got involved with the University of Minnesota Red Cross Club as a blood donor. In my second year, I got more involved by volunteering at four on campus drives in the fall semester. Then, in October 2024, at age 19, I ran for a local title to the Miss Minnesota Scholarship Program, through the Miss America Opportunity. As a contestant, I needed to create a Community Service Initiative to focus on during my candidacy and potential year of service. For me, it was a no-brainer: my passion for blood donation had only grown since I started. After seeing the critical need for blood in our nation, having learned from the representatives that spoke to my school and from Ms. Arnold, I was finally feeling that spark towards a cause. To run for Miss Dakota County, I created The Power of Red: Blood Donation and Blood Health Awareness.

The Power of Red aims to enhance donor accessibility as well as create awareness about the critical need for blood. This is accomplished through my social media campaign that features weekly blood drive locations, fun facts about donation and blood health, and provides resources to help individuals schedule and prepare for donation appointments. This platform shows the benefits to both the donor and recipient: the urgent need for blood is combined with the knowledge that donors receive about their health. My personal experience showed me that blood donation has benefits beyond saving others: it just may help you save yourself.

Miss Dakota County, Mary Patterson, shares exciting news on Instagram: she’s now a Red Cross digital volunteer! Mary is using her platform to raise awareness and educate her followers about the critical need for blood donations.

Today, at age 20, I am honored to share that I won the title of Miss Dakota County 2025 this past October. I’ve started 2025 by becoming an official American Red Cross volunteer. I am eager to take The Power of Red to the Miss Minnesota stage this summer and show this great state the impact we can make by rolling up a sleeve to give the gift of life! I will be continuing my work by keeping my social media campaign up to date, continuing my volunteering with the U of M Red Cross Club in addition to regular donation, and finally, hosting my first blood drive in early June.

I recently asked Ms. Arnold what she would say after seeing me go from a first-time blood donor to an advocate volunteering with the Red Cross, and raising awareness for this cause on a state level as a Miss Minnesota candidate. She replied, “Thank you! Any way to bring attention to this lifesaving opportunity is a great one!”

Blood donation 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). 

Motivated by a Mother’s Love

 Gail Ness, a dedicated volunteer Blood Drive Ambassador for the Red Cross Minnesota and Dakotas Region, has made it her mission to inspire others to donate blood—a cause close to her heart. Her journey began over two decades ago, rooted in a profound love for her family. 

Twenty-six years ago, Gail’s eldest son, Derek, was born prematurely, weighing just over three pounds. During his fragile early days, a blood transfusion became a turning point, helping him grow stronger and more alert. That experience left an indelible mark on Gail, sparking her lifelong commitment to blood donation. 

Gail Ness and her son Derek share a proud moment during a blood donation. Inspired by Derek’s life-saving transfusion as a newborn, the Ness family has made donating blood a tradition, encouraging others to join them in making a difference.  (Photo submitted)

Inspired by the gift of life her son received; Gail made blood donation a family tradition. Once her sons, Derek and Jared, were old enough, she encouraged them to join her. Today, the Ness family continues to donate blood together, creating a ripple effect of hope and healing. 

Gail’s passion for this cause extends beyond her family. For the past decade, she has volunteered as a Blood Drive Ambassador, welcoming donors and supporting Red Cross efforts to save lives. “The Red Cross makes it so easy to donate,” Gail explains. “From scheduling an appointment to enjoying a snack afterward, the process is simple and rewarding. During the donation, donors can relax while rolling a small exercise ball in their hand to keep the blood flowing.”  

For Gail, one of the most fulfilling parts of her role is working with first-time donors. “Seeing their joy and pride after donating is incredible,” she says. “It’s amazing to help someone realize they can make such a meaningful impact.” Gail also credits her volunteer team and the support of her regional coordinator, Deb Ahlers, for inspiring her to continue making a difference. 

Gail’s story reminds us of the power of love and gratitude. She emphasizes that donating blood helps save lives in the community and across the nation. “I encourage people to try it just once,” Gail says. “You’ll be making a difference and might be surprised by how much good you can do.” 

How can you create your own ripple effect in the community? Take a page from Gail’s book and consider donating blood—it’s a small act that saves lives. 

On February 10, 2025, Gail Ness took part in the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the newly opened Red Cross Blood Donation Center, proudly supported by the Tiffany Circle.

Call to Action: 
The new Red Cross Blaine Blood Donation Center, proudly supported by the Tiffany Circle, is now open and ready to welcome donors like you. Located at 12555 Ulysses St NE, Blaine, MN 55434, this center offers a convenient and comfortable space to help save lives. Schedule your appointment today and join Gail in creating a ripple effect of hope and healing. Visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS to make an appointment. 

By Lisa Safer and Andrea Austin, Red Cross Volunteers 

25 Gallons and Counting: Larry Peterson’s Lifesaving Legacy

“That was good stick, kid,” said Larry Peterson with a laugh to phlebotomist Andrea Mason as she poked his arm. Larry came into the Wilmar Community Center to donate his 25th gallon of blood on Tuesday, January 28. The previous week, he had attempted to donate, but his blood pressure was too high – a sign of his excitement for the special occasion.

Dedicated blood donor Larry Peterson reaches his 25-gallon blood donation milestone on January 28, 2025, at the Willmar Community Center blood drive!

On December 7, 1960, Larry, who was 19 years old at the time, came to a Red Cross blood drive in his hometown of Montevideo, Minnesota, with his father to donate blood together. It was his father’s 10th gallon that day, and Larry decided to donate his first pint on the next bed over from his dad. Larry didn’t know it at the time, but this was the beginning of a lifelong adventure. Over the course of his lifetime, Larry has donated well over 200 pints of blood, with many of his donations being Power Red donations. Larry’s gifts of life have potentially helped save hundreds of lives.  

Larry’s binder documents a lifetime of giving. From his first donation in 1960 to his 25th gallon milestone — each article, letter, and card tells the story of a life dedicated to saving others.
(Photo by Red Cross volunteer Nate Russell.)

He carries a binder with him that contains newspaper articles detailing his blood donation, letters of notification for when his blood was used to save a life, and his blood donor cards dating back to the very first one in 1960. Now it has a new front page, which is his certificate congratulating him on reaching his 25th gallon milestone. 

Larry Peterson proudly marks his 25-gallon blood donation milestone with his Certificate of Appreciation now gracing the first page of his remarkable journey.
(Photo by Red Cross volunteer Nate Russell.)

Larry’s blood type is O negative, which is the most universal blood type – which can be transfused to anyone. It is often used in emergencies, trauma and surgery when a patient’s blood type is unknown.

Larry plans to continue donating lifesaving blood for many more years and many more gallons to come. And as it happens, his son is also O negative, so the family tradition of saving lives can continue.

Larry Peterson celebrates his 25th gallon of blood donated at the Wilmar Community Center on Tuesday, January 28 — honoring a lifetime of giving and saving lives.
(Photo by Red Cross volunteer Nate Russell.)

To learn more about donating Type O blood, click here. 

Story by American Red Cross volunteer Nate Russell.

Discovery of his rare blood type leads Pastor Riley to join the Red Cross mission

Originally published on the American Red Cross Northern California Coastal Region blog January 17, 2025 – by Michelle Limpe (American Red Cross communications volunteer).

As the largest non-profit humanitarian international organization, the American Red Cross unites volunteers globally in a common mission of service to others — a mission that blood donor Frank Riley strongly believes in. From his time serving in the U.S. Navy Chaplain Corps to serving his communities as a pastor, Frank has made it a priority to live out the Red Cross mission in every aspect of his life.

Pastor Riley praying over a wounded service member in Afghanistan.
Photo courtesy of Frank Riley

Frank has been a consistent blood donor since 2008 after learning that he has cytomegalovirus (CMV) negative blood, a rare blood type needed by premature babies and children with weakened immune systems. He was informed of his rare blood type during his first donation at a drive hosted by the Children’s Hospital of Orange County.

“I didn’t know about my blood type before,” he said. “When I got my donation card back, they said you’re CMV negative and that means my blood can help premature babies and kids who are fighting cancer. I realized that while my A+ blood was common, having CMV negative blood made me a part of less than 15% of the population.”

CMV is a very contagious, flu-like virus that can be deadly for babies and those who are immunocompromised. For babies with serious cases of CMV, some of the symptoms include premature birth, low birthweight and developmental conditions. While most adults who are infected with CMV have mild to no symptoms, they end up with CMV positive blood after their bodies develop the antibodies against the virus.

Those who have never caught CMV, like Frank, are considered to have CMV negative blood. Babies who need blood transfusions should only receive CMV negative blood, since their immune systems are not strong enough to fight the virus.

“I donated for the first time because I heard of a blood shortage at the children’s hospital,” Frank said. “Of course, I was kicking myself afterwards that I hadn’t started much earlier in my life, especially having CMV negative blood, but hey we start where we are.”

Since then, Frank has continued to donate blood wherever his life has taken him. While he was serving as a pastor of Grace Hill Church in Morgan Hill, Frank would donate blood regularly through Red Cross blood drives.

Recently, he moved to Minnesota and became the new pastor of Excelsior Covenant Church. In his new community, it is even easier for Frank to donate since the Red Cross has been running their blood drives at his church.

“As I give blood, I realize that I’m giving blood to people that I love in my community and people I haven’t met yet. It could be that today my blood is needed for somebody that I desperately care about,” Frank said. “As a Christian, which I am, there’s a reminder for me that centuries ago someone gave His blood for me. Keeping with my own Christian faith, I too have the ability to give blood for others. It doesn’t have the same impact, yet it is lifesaving.”

During his 18 years serving in the U.S. Navy Chaplain Corps, Frank experienced firsthand the lifesaving potential of blood donations. He has been deployed a few times internationally serving marines and sailors.

Upon reflecting on his deployment, he recalled a particular memory in Ghanzi, Afghanistan that impacted his perception of donating blood.

“A terribly wounded service member was coming in and there was a need for blood. Throughout the operating base, the call went out over loudspeakers and everywhere for people with a certain type of blood. I watched as people ran from different parts of the base to get there ahead of the helicopter evacuation. It was desperate. It was urgent. It was in the moment. That was somebody that was coming in now,” Frank said. “I realized that while I might be more distant from it in my donations here, it is no less imminent for the family and loved ones that are hoping. The urgency is always there.”

As a non-combatant in the military, Frank’s military identification carried the Red Cross symbol on it. He highlighted that the Red Cross was very active throughout the combat area as a resource.

“There are these emotional ties. Part of that impact was coming back and continuing that partnership. In some ways, I was even carrying the symbol of the Red Cross with me wherever I went, even on my uniform, as I struggled to serve the country,” he said.

As a proud representative of the Red Cross, Frank continues to advocate to his family, friends and congregation on the importance of donating blood.

Frank affirmed his dedication to partnering with the Red Cross to continue providing blood drives at his church. He also shares images of himself donating on his social media pages as a way of encouraging others.

“It’s important, and I don’t hesitate to talk to people about it. My encouragement would be to understand this: You’re potentially about to save a life. You’re about to make a difference in ways that most people never do,” he said. “My encouragement to you is to overcome fear, to overcome anxiety, take a deep breath and try and give at least once. A lot of times, it’s that first barrier that keeps us from giving.”

According to Frank, everyone who plays a role in the blood donation process is joined by their belief and commitment to the Red Cross mission. He calls on more people to join the mission and share their gifts with those in need. “As you come to a drive, the volunteers andthe phlebotomists are there taking your blood and welcoming you warmly. You are in a room where every person is dedicated to saving other lives. How many rooms do you enter where all of you are part of that?” he said. “You might be a stranger giving blood across from me, but we’re in mission together. You might be the one checking me in and taking my blood, but we’re in mission together. Even if you’re the person offering cookies, we’re in mission together. Every person is dedicated to saving lives, and that’s a rare thing.”

Learn more about the importance and need for CMV negative blood here and make your appointment to donate blood like Frank here: redcrossblood.org.