Governor Josh Shapiro signed a proclamation designating Sept. 4, 2024 as Blood Donation Day in Pennsylvania – part of a National Blood Donation Week effort to encourage eligible donors to give blood around Labor Day. The American Red Cross invites the Greater Philadelphia community to help save lives at blood drives scheduled this week and beyond.
Image of the proclamation signed by PA Governor Josh Shapiro designating Sept. 4th as Blood Donation Day
For the ninth consecutive year, media personality Dr. Daliah Wachs has worked to enlist all 50 states in promoting blood donation. Dr. Daliah, who hosts a syndicated radio program on Talk Media Network and is heard on iHeart Radio, speaks to her listeners weekly about various medical topics and understands why it’s important to have a robust blood supply. After hearing about an emergency need for more donors, she decided to establish a National Blood Donation Day, strategically timed right around the Labor Day holiday, when blood donations often decline due to busy holiday schedules. Dr. Daliah has asked each state governor to join her by proclaiming the service day in their home state.
“Every two seconds, someone in the United States needs blood, from medical emergencies to critical treatments for conditions such as cancer or sickle cell disease,” said Jennifer Graham, Regional CEO, Red Cross Southeastern PA. “Giving blood is a meaningful way to help your community, and now is the perfect time to roll up a sleeve to make a potentially lifesaving difference.”
The Red Cross is experiencing an emergency blood shortage as summer winds down. Since July 1, the Red Cross national blood supply has fallen by more than 25%, and blood donors of all types, especially those with type O blood, are urged to give as soon as possible to help patients receive lifesaving medical care.
To find a donation opportunity and learn more about blood donation, including eligibility information, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). If you were deferred from donating in the past, you may be able to donate again.
Red Cross Collections Supervisor Tamirra Ranton. Submitted photo.
When Tamirra Ranton was in the 8th grade, her teacher awarded her a certificate and told her, “You’re going to do something great in science!” At age 22, Tamirra remembered that teacher’s prediction and said, “It was like I had a revelation.”
She decided to pursue a career in healthcare and began working at Mercy Hospital as a phlebotomist. She went back to school to become a Medical Lab Technician (MLT). Among her other areas of expertise, including training in pediatrics and geriatrics, she helped train nursing students in venipunctures before they could receive their degrees.
“In order to get your RN, you have to get a certain amount of sticks, so they would have me train them.”
Tamirra has worked in clinical lab services for more than 15 years. In May of 2023, the American Red Cross hired her to be a phlebotomy Team Supervisor, which required months of specialized training.
“The favorite part about my job is the science. I love science.” Tamirra said she loves learning about the human body, how cells and veins operate, how arteries carry oxygen through the blood to the organs, and how the chambers of the heart function. She said, “It’s amazing how the body works.”
She’s also excited about what’s ahead for her as a Red Cross supervisor – coaching, teaching and team building.
“We’ll be working on projects and different things just to make the experience better for the employees as well as the donors and the recipients.”
As a supervisor, Tamirra always wants her team to remember how important the job of a phlebotomist really is, even if they never need a blood transfusion or end up in the hospital. “We have to take pride in what we do. We’re actually affecting life, and life is so valuable,” she said.
“We have people depending on us to do our jobs.”
Tamirra has a unique perspective because after years of working in a hospital, including during the pandemic, she witnessed what happens when there isn’t enough blood on the shelves to meet the critical needs of patients.
“I used to be the person sitting in the blood bank at the hospital when the orders would come down.” Sometimes those orders couldn’t be met because of a shortage of blood. That meant she had to scramble by calling other hospitals to try and locate the requested blood.
“We would have people on the operating table. We would have people waiting for transplants. We would have people waiting for an array of services that required a transfusion or possible transfusion.”
Every 2 seconds in the United States, someone needs blood and/or platelets. Tamirra said working for the Red Cross and supervising a team of blood collectors means her life has come full circle.
“When the heart stops pumping the blood, it’s over. So, if I have a job where I can continue to make sure that the heart has something to pump, that’s amazing.”
Editor’s Note: National #BloodCollectorsWeek is Sept. 1-7, 2024. Celebrate those who ensure donors have great experiences and patients get the blood they need. Schedule an appointment to donate blood!
Red Cross volunteer Ava Arteaga will travel to the UK to pursue a master’s degree as a Fulbright Scholar. Photo by Bryant Montoya
Our own American Red Cross volunteer Ava Arteaga has a lot to celebrate. A recent graduate of Temple University, she now has become a Fulbright Scholar, the recipient of one of the most prestigious fellowships in the world.
“The application was a year-long process and took hundreds of hours, and I didn’t know if it would amount to the result I wanted. To accomplish something of this magnitude is surreal,” she said.
Ava started volunteering for the Red Cross two years ago at a Sound the Alarm event and found her perfect fit when she became a communications volunteer.
“I enjoy writing blogs because I’m able to write about all kinds of topics. It’s a mixture of education, reporting and sometimes stories about my first-hand experience,” she said.
During her time at Temple, she volunteered as a Blood Program Leader who organized blood drives and fostered a relationship between the Red Cross and Temple’s UNICEF chapter, “establishing a tradition of holding a blood drive each semester.” She said, “This is something I’m very proud of because its impact will persist long after my graduation.”
Although she was nervous at first to donate blood herself, she now is a regular donor, helped by the skilled Red Cross phlebotomists who eased her fears.
“I became a blood donor because I became aware of the blood shortage across the nation and learned how critical blood donations are for helping people with health conditions.”
Red Cross volunteer Ava Arteaga is a regular blood donor and was the Blood Program Leader at Temple University.Photo by Bryant Montoya
Ava’s favorite part about volunteering for the Red Cross is “being able to contribute to the health and safety of our communities. It’s a privilege to play even a small role for a major impact,” she said.
As a Fulbright Scholar, Ava will be moving to the United Kingdom where she will pursue her master’s degree, studying the stigma that people with addiction face in the way they are portrayed by digital news media.
For now, she’s making each day count with her family until the big move. “We have been celebrating by spending as much time together as possible, soaking up our time together before I leave.”
Congratulations Ava! The Red Cross is proud of you!
The American Red Cross continues to experience a national blood emergency as remnants of Hurricane Debby and other severe weather events across the country have further complicated efforts to rebuild the nation’s blood supply. Those in unaffected areas are urged to make an appointment to give now.
Weather in recent weeks has added to the summer shortfall in donations by forcing the cancellation of nearly 60 blood drives throughout the country, many of which were caused by Debby, causing approximately 1,500 lifesaving blood products to go uncollected. Annually, severe weather − such as blizzards, tornadoes, floods and hurricanes − impacts about 90,000 blood donations made to the Red Cross.
In Pennsylvania, nearly 700 blood drives have been canceled due to weather over the last 10 years, including 35 so far this year. Because blood has a short shelf life and can only come from volunteer blood donors, any disruptions in the ability to collect lifesaving blood can have serious consequences for hospitals and patients.
First-time donors and those who give regularly are critical to blood supply recovery. To make an appointment, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). In thanks, all who come to give through Aug. 31 will get a $20 Amazon.com Gift Card by email. See RedCrossBlood.org/Help for details.
Those who come to give Sept. 1-15 will receive an exclusive Red Cross raglan T-shirt, while supplies last.
Be ready for emergencies
September is National Preparedness Month, and a strong blood supply is key to preparedness for disasters and medical emergencies. As disasters occur more often and become more powerful due to the climate crisis, the Red Cross also encourages people to get their households ready for emergencies. This year the country has already seen the earliest Category 5 storm ever recorded with Hurricane Beryl,and wildfires have burned 2.7 million more acres compared to all of 2023.
Disasters can happen anywhere, at any time, often without warning. Get ready by making a plan to stay safe, gathering important supplies and knowing how you’ll stay connected. To learn what disasters may affect your community, visit redcross.org/hazardmap and then download the free Red Cross Emergency App for step-by-step guidance, real-time weather alerts and expert preparedness and safety advice in both English and Spanish.
Pictured at the West Chester Blood Donation Center ribbon cutting are (from left) Ashley Gagné, West Goshen Board of Supervisors Chair; Helen Munizza, Red Cross Regional Donor Services Executive; Katrell Patterson, Red Cross Fixed Site Collections Manager; Lynn Cohen, Red Cross Delaware Valley Chapter Executive Director; Emily Gindele, West Whiteland Volunteer Fire Fighter; Jennifer Graham, Red Cross Southeastern PA CEO; and Carly Spross, Red Cross Delaware Valley Chapter Board Chair. Photo by Donn Greenberg / American Red Cross
Located at 1065 Andrew Drive in West Chester, the new donor center replaces the location previously open on Gay Street.
West Whiteland volunteer firefighter Emily Gindele helped cut the ceremonial ribbon after sharing her story during the short program. Multiple blood transfusions helped save Emily’s life after she sustained catastrophic injuries in a car accident that killed her boyfriend Colin. She credits the generosity of blood donors for making her recovery possible.
“The trauma doctors raced against the clock, performing emergency surgery, giving me a blood transfusion, removing my spleen, and stitching me up. I was on a ventilator for over a week. Without the blood transfusion, I would have died. That blood gave me another chance at life,” she shared during her remarks.
Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs lifesaving blood. As new cancer cases rise — by an estimated 36% by 2040 — so will the demand for blood products. Remarkably, 25% of the U.S. blood supply goes to patients undergoing cancer treatment. Unfortunately, work and other factors have impacted when and where people give blood, creating new challenges we must overcome.
To meet the growing and changing needs for blood products, the West Chester site is one of four blood donation centers the Red Cross is building and/or renovating in Southeastern Pennsylvania. These strategically located facilities will provide more consistent and convenient locations for blood and platelet donors to give.
Patients – and their families rallying behind them – are counting on the generosity of volunteer blood donors to share their health. If you’re eligible and feeling well, please make an appointment by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, using the Red Cross Blood Donor App or calling 1-800-RED CROSS.
During Beckett Campbell’s treatment for Leukemia he received around 30 blood transfusions. He rang the bell for finishing chemo in November 2023. Photo by Jenny Farley / American Red Cross
The Haverford Community Recreation and Environmental Center, known as the CREC, is a place where health and fitness take center stage. The site features a walking track, a downstairs gym, a fitness center and large classroom spaces, all nestled in a wooded area with nature trails.
On August 1st, walking through the big glass doors of the CREC, signs pointed you to an American Red Cross blood drive on the ground floor. Before stepping inside, you heard the sound of two little boys, Beckett and Grady Campbell, wrestling and giggling as only siblings can, right inside the entrance, just feet away from an elaborate tri-fold poster that said it all, “Beckett Brigade.”
The poster, which featured pictures of Beckett during treatment, explained what brought friends, family and others out to the CREC to donate blood with a special thank you message: “Beckett is able to go to school, play sports and enjoy life thanks to the kindness of blood donors like you!”
Beckett Campbell and his little brother Grady played games together at the blood drive honoring him in Haverford, Pennsylvania. Photo by Jenny Farley / American Red Cross
Beckett, who is just ten years old, is recovering from leukemia. Blood transfusions helped him survive.
“A lot of people don’t understand that kids with cancer or adults with cancer – they can’t get chemotherapy unless their blood counts are at a certain number,” explained Beckett’s mom Amy.
Amy described how Beckett and other patients like him have to have high enough red blood cell and hemoglobin counts. If they don’t they can’t get the “chemo they need to save their lives.” Blood transfusions help get the numbers up where they need to be to get treatment.
Beckett had 9 different types of chemo over 2 ½ years and around 30 blood transfusions. Now, Amy is paying it forward. She worked with the Red Cross to organize the blood drive in honor of her son and to help people who may need blood.
“Beckett only had to wait one time – there wasn’t any blood available, but our goal is that no one ever has to wait if they need a transfusion,” she said.
When patients like Beckett need a transfusion, it’s the blood already on the shelves that helps save lives, which underscores the importance of giving blood regularly.
Allison Camara donates blood with the help of Collections supervisor Tamirra Ranton. Photo by Jenny Farley / American Red Cross
Having donated blood in the past, Allison Camara had been wanting to donate again when she saw a post in a mom’s group on Facebook.
“I read about Beckett and I know kids going through treatment need a lot of blood transfusions sometimes, so it’s just really important that people get out and do that if they are healthy and able to,” she said.
Allison’s own young daughter had to have a blood transfusion after doctors found her to be anemic and she may need more in the future.
Teresa Caponiti is another mom who saw the Facebook post and came to donate blood on her lunch break from work. She used to donate in college and her dad was a frequent blood donor.
“I’ve known a lot of people that have needed to get blood while they were in the hospital.”
Reading about Beckett touched her heart and made her think of her own kids.
“I’m feeling a lot of empathy for his family and what they went through,” she said.
Teresa Caponiti prepares to donate blood in honor of Beckett Campbell. She said, “It’s something you can easily do to help someone else in need.” Photo by Jenny Farley/ American Red Cross
When Beckett was asked what made getting a blood transfusion easier, you might think he said a bribe like a toy or a treat. When he answered he said something unexpected.
“Count. 1,2,3 and then they stick it in.”
Beckett’s mom explained he liked to stare at the needle and look directly at it. “He’s just not afraid. He’s had so many IVs and needles – he’s just a warrior with that,” she said.
Beckett finished chemo last November and said it made him feel “good” to be done. He will still go to oncology clinic for the next few years while his friends and family wait for a special calendar milestone. In November 2028, Beckett will enter “survivorship” and cancer will officially be behind him. For now, he’s looking forward to fifth grade. He has a big group of supporters in his “Beckett Brigade.”
Amy Campbell and her son Beckett stand outside the CREC where a blood drive was held in honor of her son. Photo by Jenny Farley / American Red Cross
Amy said, “We’ve always felt supported throughout Beckett’s whole journey by lots of people. People we know. People we don’t know. And it’s just been really special to have a relationship with the Red Cross and to help support other kids who are in need of blood donations and other adults who are sick and in need of blood transfusions.”
If you would like to make sure critical supplies of blood are available, learn how to donate blood at RedCrossBlood.org, by calling 1-800-REDCROSS, or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.
Red Cross graphic – Emergency Shortage: The Red Cross had a shortfall of 19K+ blood donations in July.
The American Red Cross is experiencing an emergency blood shortage as the nation faces dangerous levels of heat and people head out for final summer travel plans. Since July 1, the Red Cross national blood supply has fallen by more than 25%, and blood donors of all types, especially those with type O blood, are urged to give as soon as possible to help patients receive lifesaving medical care.
Heat impacted more than 100 blood drives in July in nearly every state where the Red Cross collects blood – compounding other seasonal obstacles to blood donation, such as travel and summer activities. Together these factors contributed to a shortfall of more than 19,000 blood donations in July. At the same time, hospital demand for blood products remains strong. Blood products are being sent to hospitals faster than donations are coming in. Right now, type O inventory is so low, distributions of this vital blood type are reduced below what hospitals count on.
“It’s critical hospitals have both type O positive and O negative blood ready to go for patients in the most life-threatening situations,” said Dr. Eric Gehrie, executive physician director for the Red Cross. “Type O is especially important for victims of accidents and other trauma who are receiving emergency treatment. Now is the time for donors of all blood types to give and ensure hospital shelves can be restocked before any impact to patient care.”
The Red Cross is working with hospitals around-the-clock to meet the blood needs of patients – but can’t do it alone. To make an appointment, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
As a thank-you, those who come give blood, platelets or plasma Aug. 1-31, 2024, will get a $20 Amazon.com Gift Card by email. For details, visit RedCrossBlood.org/Help.
Even as we work to overcome this blood shortage, the Red Cross is providing food, shelter and comfort to communities affected by the hurricane in the Southeast and wildfires in the West. To help people affected by these disasters and other crises, we ask that you please visit redcross.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS to support Red Cross Disaster Relief.
A tattoo is one of the most personal choices you can make. Using your body as a human canvas is the ultimate form of artistic expression, and the reasons why people decide to get inked vary widely.
July 17th is National Tattoo Day, and despite what you may have heard, in most cases getting a tattoo does not prevent you from donating blood.
Most states regulate tattoo facilities. In those states there is no delay required before donating blood, as long as the establishment uses sterile needles and fresh ink that has not been reused.
Pennsylvania is one of nine states and the District of Columbia that don’t regulate tattoo businesses, which means potential blood donors are required to wait three months after getting a tattoo before giving blood.
We met several blood donors at the recent “I Bleed for Preston and Steve” American Red Cross blood drive that showcased tattoos as unique as their reasons for getting them.
Katy Raiser gives blood at the “I Bleed For Preston & Steve” blood drive on June 14, 2024. Photos by Jenny Farley / American Red Cross
Katy Raiser started donating blood in 2009 at a blood drive at her high school. Her dad is a liver transplant survivor who endured a 10-hour surgery and needed blood transfusions during the operation.
“Blood donations on surgeries like that are super important so I try to do my part to help out other people who need it,” she said.
Katy got her first tattoo on her back and now has at least 17, though she said she has lost track and it’s likely more.
“It was kind of a dedication to my mom who passed away when I was young. After that I just got hooked and clearly haven’t stopped ever since.”
On Katie’s left arm, she has an intricate array of tattoos that illustrate art and science. “I’ve kind of been patchworking this one,” she explained.
Pointing to her right arm, she said “I’m doing a Star Wars theme sleeve so I just got Darth Vader recently.” That took nearly 9 hours to complete.
Melvin Williams and Mary Mahoney show off their tattoos after they donated blood at the “I Bleed For Preston & Steve” blood drive. Photo by Elisabeth von Baldas / American Red Cross
Mary Mahoney and her husband Melvin Williams are blood donors who also love tattoos. Showing off a tattoo of skulls on her arm, Mary said, “This one was a gift a friend of mine bought me for Christmas 10, 12 years ago.” She then pointed to her left wrist. “This is a flower my husband got for me for Mother’s Day.”
Melvin has his own reasons for getting tattoos. He said, “I always thought they looked cool. Like bikers – they just look cool. And then it just became a thing. You get a tattoo and it’s like, I want more!”
Blood donor Mitch Powers said he has a “bunch of tattoos,” and they all illustrate sports or family. He pointed out his dinosaur tattoo which represents his three kids. He also has a tattoo that shows he’s a Phillies fan.
Mitch said getting tattoos doesn’t really hurt that much but something that hurts even less is donating blood.
“This is definitely ten thousand times less painful than the tattoos,” he said, gesturing to the blood drive behind him.
Mitch Powers gives blood at the “I Bleed for Preston & Steve” blood drive on June 14, 2024. Photo by Jenny Farley / American Red Cross
If you are interested in getting a tattoo, Katy Raiser offered this advice. “It’s really not as scary as people think. If it’s something you’ve always wanted to do, there’s plenty of amazing artists” who are out there and ready to create.
Now, you may be wondering why you have to wait three months in unregulated states to donate blood after getting a tattoo. It’s because of concerns over transmitting Hepatitis. All blood donations are screened for Hepatitis B and C through several tests, but it takes time to properly detect the viruses. People with Hepatitis should not donate blood.
The three-month delay also applies to people who apply their own tattoos, get tattoos in prison or who get tattoos in states with regulations but from unregulated artists or facilities.
Whether you have tattoos or not, the American Red Cross needs your blood and platelet donations this summer. All blood types are needed, especially type O.
You can sign up to give blood or platelets at RedCrossBlood.org, by calling 1-800-Red Cross, or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.
American Red Cross Regional Donor Services Executive Helen Munizza and Regional CEO Jennifer Graham pose for a pic with the Preston & Steve Morning show team at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks. Photo by Bernadette Mathis / American Red Cross
Nineteen years ago, Tom VanDuyne gave blood for the first time at a small storefront American Red Cross blood drive sponsored by 93.3 WMMR’s Preston & Steve Show. He heard about it on the radio.
“They mentioned the blood drive. Sounds neat. It’s a fun thing and we all love listening to the Preston & Steve Show,” he recalled.
Tom is among a very special group of people who have attended all 19 “I Bleed For Preston & Steve” blood drives, including the most recent one on June 14th at Live! Casino & Hotel in Philadelphia and the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks.
Blood donor Tom VanDuyne poses for a photo with Red Cross Blood Donor Ambassador Carla Venditti. Both are wearing past “I Bleed For Preston & Steve” T-shirts. Photo by Bernadette Mathis / American Red Cross
Few blood drives can boast having such a cult following. Familiar faces like Tom flock to the blood drive year after year hoping to grab a selfie with their favorite DJs and lay claim to a coveted, limited-edition Preston & Steve T-shirt.
Even more importantly, they roll up their sleeves in record numbers to be part of something special – a community that literally helps save lives while celebrating the power of rock n’ roll.
Growing from a small storefront drive in the former Franklin Mills Mall in 2005 to one of the largest blood drives in the country with multiple locations and 12 hours of live broadcasts, “I Bleed For Preston & Steve” has collected 21,069 donations since its inception.
93.3 WMMR Morning Show co-hosts Preston Elliot and Steve Morrison gave blood at Live! Casino & Hotel in Philadelphia after finishing up their live broadcast from the Oaks location on June 14th. Photo by Konrad Jones / American Red Cross
During last month’s drive, the Red Cross and Preston & Steve Show celebrated an exciting milestone – the 20,000th donation collected around 10 a.m. at the Oaks location. Katie Mocarsky, who is going into her junior year of college, made the donation.
“It was definitely a surprise!” she said. Katie received Red Cross and WMMR swag and was interviewed live on the radio.
Katie Mocarsky poses for a photo after making the 20,000th “I Bleed For Preston & Steve” blood drive donation. Photo by Alana Mauger / American Red Cross
The 2024 drive collected 1,117 units of blood, including 96 first-time donors.
“Each year that we’ve done the blood drive, the percentage of newbies is very high – higher than other blood drives – and I take that as a good sign,” shared co-host Steve Morrison when the show announced the drive’s results during their June 18th broadcast. “If people make that their first time and they realize it’s not that bad, then they tend to become consistent donors.”
“And everyone who came out to donate, you were AMAZING,” added co-host Preston Elliott.
High school special education teacher Matthew Martin was among the first donors through the door at Oaks. He has given blood at the Preston & Steve drive for about seven years.
“It’s so important to save lives. What’s better than that?” he said.
Matthew Martin donates blood at the “I Bleed for Preston and Steve” blood drive in Oaks. Photo by Jenny Farley / American Red Cross
Mitch Powers has donated blood at the drive for the past four or five years. He said, “There’s no reason not to. It takes a couple of minutes out of your time and a lot of people need it out there.”
A loyal fan, Mitch has a tattoo that he won in a Preston and Steve contest.
Chris McAden, who has been donating at the drive for at least seven years, also has a Preston and Steve tattoo. He makes an effort to attend WMMR events and said donating blood is a good way to help people and “feel like a superhero for the day.”
Left: Blood Donor Mitch Powers said, “I like to donate blood whenever I can and I listen to the radio show so I figured two birds with one stone.” Right: Chris McAden encourages everyone to donate blood. He said, “If you’re apprehensive talk to people who have donated to get an idea of what it’s like.” Photos by Jenny Farley / American Red Cross
After finishing their show at Oaks, Steve and Preston headed to Live! Casino, where they donated blood. They’re both regular Red Cross blood donors, not only at their drive, but throughout the year in the community.
Live broadcasts add to the excitement of the blood drive. In addition to the Preston & Steve Morning Show, Pierre Robert did his afternoon show from Live! Casino & Hotel between 11 a.m.-3 p.m., then Brent Porche was live from Oaks between 3-7 p.m. Listener-favorite 7 p.m.-midnight DJ Jacky BamBam also spent the morning greeting blood donors in Philadelphia.
Left: 93.3 WMMR DJ Pierre Robert broadcasts live from the Philadelphia location. Photo by Katerina Luchinina / American Red Cross Right: 93.3 WMMR DJ Jacky Bam Bam greets donors at the Philadelphia.location. Photo by Konrad Jones / American Red Cross
For some, bleeding for Preston & Steve is a family affair.
Jaime Kraus and her mother Nicole donated blood together at the drive. Jaime said, “I always like giving blood. It’s an easy way to help people. It’s good karma, like if God forbid anything ever happens, I would want to have the blood I needed.”
Her mom Nicole called donating a “family tradition.” Nicole said, “My dad encouraged me and then I encouraged her. I got my 4-gallon pin just this time last year, and I think my dad is working on his 7-gallon pin. She’s on her way to her first gallon.”
Nicole Kraus (left) donated blood with her daughter Jaime at the Oaks location. Jaime said, “People are so friendly. They’re helpful.” Both wear “I Bleed for Preston & Steve T-shirts from previous years. Photo by Jenny Farley / American Red Cross
Barbara Steinmetz and her daughter Alison planned to donate blood together during their first time at the Preston & Steve drive. Alison is a rising senior in high school, and like her mother has coveted type O negative blood.
“With the universal blood type and everything, I like the idea of being able to help people even though I’m younger,” Alison said.
Barbara Steinmetz (left) likes to donate blood with her daughter Alison, who plans to study animation in college. Photo by Jenny Farley / American Red Cross
Craig Powell is another member of the 19-year club. He’s looking forward to donating at next year’s 20th annual “I Bleed For Preston & Steve” Red Cross blood drive.
“I have had a close friend that battled cancer, and I know that during her treatment she was receiving blood transfusions. I know that I am still helping out others in need,” he said.
93.3 WMMR DJ Brent Porche talks with blood donor Craig Powell at the Oaks location. Photo by Liz von Baldas / American Red Cross
During a broadcast after the drive, Preston read a listener text the show received underscoring the importance of blood donations. The text reads, “Guys, thank you, as a parent of a child that needed 5 blood transfusions earlier this year. It is because of people like you and your listeners that he is still alive today. Blood donations are so important. Thank you, thank you!”
“And that’s the reason why it’s all done,” Preston said.
Exterior of the new American Red Cross Blood Donation Center in West Chester. Photo by Dave Skutnik / American Red Cross
People wanting to make a lifesaving difference in Chester County have the chance to donate blood and platelets at a new West Chester American Red Cross Blood Donation Center. The new donation center is now collecting blood and platelet donations for patients, such as those battling cancer, accident victims, transplant recipients and those living with sickle cell disease.
The new blood donation center is located at 1065 Andrew Drive. When turning into the parking lot, donors should turn left and head around the left side of the building. Parking and the entrance are both located in the rear. This new donor center replaces the location previously open on Gay Street.
Opening day Collections staff and management at the new West Chester Blood Donation Center on June 14, 2024. Photo by Dave Skutnik / American Red Cross
Having a readily available blood supply is vital for patients whose survival depends on transfusions.
“From mothers experiencing childbirth complications to those facing trauma situations in the emergency room, many of us may be connected to someone who has relied on lifesaving blood products,” said Jennifer Graham, Regional CEO for the American Red Cross Southeastern Pennsylvania. “The Red Cross is pleased to offer donors this new opportunity to help provide hope, healing and access to treatment for patients in need.”
Platelet donor Mike Erdlen was the first through the doors of the new West Chester Blood Donation Center on June 14, 2024. Photo by Dave Skutnik / American Red Cross
Donating blood is essential to community health, and volunteer donors are the only source of blood for those in need. By making an appointment to give blood or platelets at the West Chester American Red Cross Blood Donation Center, donors can feel good knowing that they may be helping patients not only in their community, but also their family and friends across the nation.
“Big, bright and beautiful,” is how platelet donor Mike Erdlen described the new West Chester Blood Donation Center. He was the first donor to walk through the doors of the new center when it opened on Friday, June 14, 2024. June 14 was also World Blood Donor Day, a day to thank voluntary blood donors for their lifesaving gifts. The Red Cross thanks donors like Mike, who has made more than 350 donations in his lifetime. Mike makes the trip from Newtown Square to West Chester for his regular appointments and is excited that the open space offers the chance “to see all the great staff and volunteers here.”
Platelet donor Dianne McNally was among the first to donate at the new West Chester Blood Donation Center on June 14, 2024. Photo by Dave Skutnik / American Red Cross
Platelet donor Dianne McNally of Paoli was surprised and excited to hear that she was one of the first to arrive at the new donation center on June 14. “It was easy to get to. It’s beautiful. Everything is going very smooth,” said Dianne, who has been donating blood for more than 20 years.
Platelets are the clotting portion of blood and are needed for many reasons, but they are primarily given to cancer patients. These tiny cells have a very short shelf life – just five days from the time they are donated – so there is a constant, often critical, need for new and current donors to give to keep up with hospital demand for platelets.
In addition to the West Chester Blood Donation Center, individuals will also continue to be able to give blood at Red Cross blood drives across Chester County.
Slideshow of West Chester Blood Donation Center interior. Photos by Dave Skutnik / American Red Cross
