RedCrossPhillyBlog

Category: Blood Services

  • What to Expect as a First-Time Blood Donor

    By: Sam Antenucci

    January is National Blood Donation Month, and for many, kicking off the New Year could involve donating blood for the first time at the American Red Cross. I gave blood for the first time in September 2016, and like many first-time donors, I wasn’t sure what to expect. And I had a strong fear of needles. In the end, my experience of donating blood was very rewarding!

    If you’re thinking about signing up for your first Red Cross Blood Drive, here are my tips for first-time donors, especially prospective donors who are afraid of needles.

    Have Your RapidPass® Ready

    RapidPass® is a digital health questionnaire that allows donors to complete the readings and health questions prior to your donation. Not only does it save time at registration, it also can be filled out from the convenience of your phone.

    Be mindful of current COVID-19 guidelines

    The Red Cross has been working in accordance with CDC guidelines when it comes to the COVID-19 pandemic. This means the enforcement of social distancing measures, masks, and the cleaning of high-touch surface areas. As a vigilant precaution, the Red Cross is also asking that you defer your appointment for at least 14 days following:

    • A Positive COVID-19 test or diagnosis
    • Any symptoms of COVID-19

    For more information, read Red Cross’ COVID-19 and Blood Donations guide.

    Eat a Full Meal and Drink Plenty of Water Before You Donate

    Do not donate on an empty stomach and drink an extra 16 ounces (or 2 cups) of water. Having a well-balanced meal and drinking plenty of water before you donate will keep from feeling dizzy or lightheaded after your donation.

    Your iron levels will be checked during the screening process before you donate, to confirm that they are at adequate levels. Make sure your diet leading up to and after your donation is filled with iron-rich foods. Check out the Red Cross’ recommendations for Iron-Rich Foods.

    Tips for Overcoming Your Fear of Needles

    If needles are something that has kept you from donating in the past, here are some tips that have helped me conquer my fears.

    • Share your fears with the Red Cross Staff. The Red Cross Staff are friendly, welcoming people who help donors feel comfortable by talking them through the process.
    • Listen to music or catch up on some reading. It can be relaxing to bring a pair of earphones and listen to your favorite music or catch up on an audiobook.

    Remember – it’s a quick pinch for a good cause. If all else fails, keep in mind that it is a quick 3 second pinch and you are saving lives with your donation!

    Be Proud! Your Donation Will Save Lives!

    Blood donation is a rewarding experience. If you want to sign up to donate, visit RedCrossBlood.org or download the Blood Donor App to schedule your first appointment.

    Primary image description: Graphic that reads “January is National Blood Donor Month”, surrounded by figures depicted in the act of donating blood and raising a bandaged arm in triumph. Symbols of different blood types, blood donation bags, bandages, a Red Cross truck, and red drops are arranged around the words.

  • Donors help sickle cell and other patients during MLK Day of Service blood drive

    By Dave Skutnik

    On Monday, January 18, 2021 the Red Cross partnered with Girard College for the 26th annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service. While COVID-19 forced many projects for the day to be virtual, the Red Cross hosted a blood drive that collected 56 units of blood, far exceeding the day’s goal of 40 units.

    The drive specifically invited African American donors to help sickle cell patients. Since the COVID-19 pandemic began last March, the number of African Americans donating blood has dropped significantly. One reason for the lower donor turnout is blood drive cancellations due to closures for businesses, schools, and churches during the pandemic.

    Blood donors of all races and ethnicities are needed to increase the diversity of the blood supply and ensure blood remains readily available for patients who still rely on transfusions during this uncertain time.

    Ron Davis was one donor who turned out, along with his wife, to donate. “It’s a tremendous opportunity to give on this special day. It’s a day that respects a man who gave much to the country and this world,” said Davis.

    For Davis, Martin Luther King Jr. Day is more than a holiday, it’s personal. “I dedicate my donor experience to my brother Stephen, who is going through a challenging time and is a recipient of blood,” he said.
    Davis is a local board member for the Red Cross, and also serves on the American Red Cross National Diversity Advisory Council. “I’m proud of the Red Cross and its leadership for reaching out to help the vulnerable people who have sickle cell disease,” he added.

    “It’s a tremendous opportunity to give on this special day. It’s a day that respects a man who gave much to the country and this world.”

    – Ron Davis, Red Cross Blood Donor

    In the U.S., about 100,000 people of various racial and ethnic backgrounds are living with sickle cell disease, most of whom are of African or Latino descent. African American blood donors are vital for many patients with rare blood types, like those with sickle cell disease, who depend on blood that must be matched very closely – beyond the A, B, O and AB blood types – to reduce the risk of complications.

    Despite the decline in blood donations from African American donors, the need for blood products for patients with sickle cell disease has remained steady. Without a readily available blood supply, sickle cell patients can experience severe pain, tissue and organ damage, acute anemia, and even strokes. Furthermore, sickle cell patients are at high risk of serious complications from coronavirus infection, and a blood transfusion can be a lifesaving treatment for these patients.

    To protect the health and safety of Red Cross staff and donors, individuals who do not feel well or who believe they may be ill with COVID-19 should postpone their donation.

    Each Red Cross blood drive and donation center follows the highest standards of safety and infection control, and additional precautions – including temperature checks, social distancing and face coverings for donors and staff – have been implemented to help protect the health of all those in attendance. Donors are asked to schedule an appointment prior to arriving at the drive and are required to wear a face covering or mask while at the drive, in alignment with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention public guidance.

    Healthy individuals who are feeling well are asked to make an appointment to donate in the weeks and months ahead by downloading the free Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enabling the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device.

    All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

    Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.

    Main image description: Blood donor Ron Davis gives blood, and an enthusiastic thumbs’ up, during the recent Red Cross Blood Drive at Girard College on Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service. Photo by Dave Skutnik.

  • Make a New Year’s Resolution with the American Red Cross

    By: Marta Rusek

    Let’s face it, 2020 was a tough year. It challenged us to rethink our day-to-day priorities and taught us hard truths about not taking good fortune for granted. It gave us new gratitude and empathy. But now that we’ve turned the corner, let’s slam the door on the past and look forward to 2021. That means resolutions!

    Sure, the resolution is a bit of a January cliche. By whatever word you use—goal, aspiration, dream, ambition—a resolution is a motivator. Are you seeking a satisfying way to learn something new, cross off long-postponed items on your to-do list, and find your passion through a life-changing cause? Look no further than the American Red Cross.

    The Red Cross’s vast network of resources can connect you with classes to prepare you for emergencies at home and out in the world, plus opportunities to make a difference based on your interests, skills, and schedule. Here are a few ideas to consider:

    • Prepare for an emergency at home and on the go. It’s never too early to plan for potential disaster, and the Red Cross has you covered with Emergency Preparedness Kits for every situation. So be proactive: Pick up your very first emergency kit, or stock up on supplies to stash in your car for inclement weather or a natural disaster. To get started, browse the Emergency Preparedness section of the Red Cross store.
    • Take a First Aid/CPR/AED class. Knowing how to save a life or help dress a wound are essential skills to know, even during a pandemic. Getting a First Aid/CPR/AED certification now is also a good idea, so that when social distancing is no longer necessary and folks with your skillset are needed, you’ll be ready! The Red Cross offers several options in-person, online, and hybrid classes that are a combination of both. Once you complete the course, you will receive a digital certificate for First Aid/CPR/AED that will be valid for two years. Find a class here.
    • Become a volunteer. Did you know that 90 percent of the people behind the Red Cross are unpaid? Volunteerism benefits everyone, and that’s especially true when you’re with the Red Cross. Whatever your skill level, you will be welcomed as a volunteer. You’ll receive in-depth training and have access to a wealth of learning opportunities, and the new skills you acquire can be put to good use in a variety of areas—disaster response, support for military service members, blood drives, and even communications and public relations. (The article you’re reading now was written by a volunteer!) If you’re 18 or older and looking to serve your community and gain leadership skills that will take you far, you can’t go wrong with one of the nation’s best volunteer-led humanitarian organizations. Begin your volunteer journey on our website here.

    When you make your resolution with the Red Cross happen, we want to know about it! Post your story about volunteering, giving blood, or taking a class with the Red Cross on social media with the hashtag #RedCrossResolution and tag @RedCrossPhilly on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Your example just may inspire your loved ones to do the same!

    Main image description: Two Red Cross volunteers wearing face masks work together to load life-saving supplies onto a truck.

    Secondary image description: Several sticky notes with New Year’s resolutions on a wall, with phrases like “Be happy!”, “Exercise more,” “Eat Healthier,” and “Save Money.” In the center is “Donate Blood,” with a large red arrow pointing to it. On the righthand side is a red block with the Red Cross log and text in white letters that reads: “May we suggest a resolution?”

  • From the Army Reserves to the American Red Cross: A Profile of Judith Alexis Smith

    By: Marta Rusek
    Thank you for your service! Judith Alexis SmithJudith Alexis Smith is uniquely qualified in her role as a volunteer for the American Red Cross’ Service to the Armed Forces Program, as she herself is a veteran of military service!

    She served her country as a reservist with the 4074th Reception Battalion, in Willow Grove, PA starting in 1985. For the next eight years, she performed her duties as a 71L (a clerk) once a month and two weeks annually. When she wasn’t serving as a reservist and working in a civilian role, she was engaged in what she describes as “the worthwhile cause” of donating blood to the Red Cross.

    Wanting to support our community beyond an exceptional military career, Judith became a volunteer for the Red Cross in late 2005, during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Though she was never deployed on-site to Louisiana, she put her experience and passion as a blood donor to good use by volunteering with local blood drives organized by the Red Cross.

    In the years since, Judith has become a valued member of the volunteer team, going wherever she is needed most. She has done it all, from setting up tables at community events to wearing the chapter’s mascot costume. She’s also enjoyed participating in Sound the Alarm events, serving as a greeter for the Red Cross Ball, and working the greeting cards station at the annual Holiday Party for families. She even strut her stuff as a model at a recent volunteer appreciation banquet, wearing a Red Cross uniform as part of a collection of uniforms from different periods in the organization’s history.



    While she has worn many hats as a volunteer, working with veterans and their families has been the highlight of Judith’s Red Cross service.

    “I felt that [joining the Service to the Armed Forces program] was an extension of my work with the community,” she said. “Even though I was a veteran, I think other veterans contributed so much more than me. The sacrifices of the men and women, along with their families, is gratefully and proudly recognized. If I can help in any way promoting that fact, I’m in.”

    Some of Judith’s favorite activities have unfortunately been postponed or massively scaled back as a result of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, including volunteer shifts at parades and the VA medical center.

    “Volunteering at the veteran’s medical center and at parades is a joy,” she shared. “I would help at various functions and meetings, in the center. At the parades, I would walk and/or assist in them – before, during, and after – greeting the people, handing out information and snacks and, of course, water.”

    At 70 years young, Judith is as passionate and driven to working with service members and their families as she was when it came to her own service as a reservist. She looks forward to the day when the COVID-19 pandemic is over and she can jump into more active service.

    “I hope to contribute more than I am right now,” she explained. “My prayers are with all who can and do more.”

    Primary image description: A graphic that reads: “Thank you for your service! Judith Alexis Smith”. The American Red Cross logo appears at the top, and a circular photo of Judith, wearing a Red Cross volunteer vest and smiling from ear to ear as she proudly holds a picture of herself in her Army Reserves uniform.

    Secondary image description: Judith poses for a group photo at a recent Veterans Day parade with the American Red Cross of Southeastern Pennsylvania’s CEO, Guy Triano and three staff members. They are all smiles as they hold American flags and stand in front of a Red Cross ambulance.

  • A Needle-Phobe’s Guide to Blood Donations

    Written by Sam Antenucci

    My father is a universal donor, meaning he can donate his blood to anyone who needs it. He donated as frequently as he could, often donating plasma as well. He did this for years, up until he was diagnosed with cancer.

    Knowing that blood can help burn-victims, transplant patients, those battling cancer etc., made me want to step up and take my father’s place on the donation table. Every two seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood, making donations not just important but the difference between life and death.

    Blood Drive at the Rayburn House Building Capitol Hill 2017

    My first donation was in September of 2014 and I had some concerns going into my first blood drive. Like many other first-time donors, I didn’t like needles. I walked into a room bustling with nurses, donors and soft rock playing in the background. I was greeted by the warm faces of volunteers at the registration table and led to the back for a mini-physical where I answered a few general health questions and had my vitals taken. Once the physical was finished, I was on track to donate.

    I laid down on the table as the nurse and I chatted away about being a first-time donor. She explained everything and tried to ease my fear of needles, reminding me that each donation goes to those in need. Before I knew it, the needle was in with a slight pinch and I was only ten minutes away from filling my first pint of blood! Between the music and the friendly staff, time zipped by and I was able to hop off the table and enjoy the refreshments waiting for donors afterwards. From there, my blood was sent to the blood donation center in Philadelphia for processing and testing.

    Four years later, I’m still donating to this day, especially since blood supplies have been noticeably low during the summer months. To make matters worse, the number of Red Cross donors decreased each year, leaving many hospital’s supplies low, shelves empty and patients in dire need of transfusions. Now is better than ever to make the decision to save lives by donating blood.

    3 livesBy taking 15 minutes out of your day to donate blood, you can save three lives and give patients a chance to keep fighting. You don’t need a special reason to give blood, just one that motivates you. Some donate because of friends, some do it because they believe it is the right thing to do, and there are some who do it for the free cookies. Regardless of the reason to give blood, I would like to offer advice for new-donor jitters – take pride in the good you are doing, relax with music or chat with the staff, and be prepared before you donate by eating a good meal with plenty of water. It is a rewarding experience that changes the lives of those in need.

     

    To find more information on where you can donate, you can go to https://rdcrss.org/2ORL31P to find a blood drive near you.

  • You are the Missing Type

    Written by Sam Antenucci

    We underestimate the importance of the letters A, B, and O. When these letters are missing from a sentence, it ceases to make sense. Likewise, these letters hold the utmost importance in our hospitals. Representing the main blood type groups, they can mean the difference between life or death. Unfortunately, hospitals nationwide have been going through extreme shortages in our blood supplies and have reached dangerously low levels.

    Missing Type

    In response to the shortages, The Red Cross is kicking off The Missing Types Campaign to address and bring awareness to the shortages during the summer months. Since 2013, there has been a decreasing number of Red Cross donors, declining by 80,000 people each year. To make matters worse, every two seconds, someone in the U. S. needs a blood transfusion. This disproportion in donors and the high demand of blood has left many hospital’s supplies low and shelves empty.

    blood donors

    U.S. Health officials state that over 13 million units of blood are needed yearly to keep up with the demand for patients in need. Though the Red Cross provides 40% of that blood, only 3% of the population donates annually. The frightening reality of going to the hospital and needing a blood transfusion, only to find your type is no longer available, is one many patients will soon have to face.

    Without the generosity of blood donors, patients with various cancers, traumas, and chronic diseases might not be able to get the blood that they desperately need to stay alive and healthy. Fortunately, this was not the case for a brave 2-year-old, Lindsey Crowder. At the time of her lymphoblastic leukemia diagnosis, Lindsey and her family went through a two-year chemotherapy regiment that put her into remission. However, once Lindsey turned six, she relapsed and had to rely on over 100 different blood transfusions to keep her healthy and give her another chance to recover. Lindsey’s mother, Lisa recalled, “Without the generous donors, I don’t know where we would be. Which is why we are now donors.”

    Normally, you might not realize the importance of the letters A, B, and O, until they are gone. Likewise, these letters are vanishing from our hospitals shelves, leaving many critical patients without the blood they desperately need. You are the missing type, and by donating this summer season, you can save three lives with your life saving donation. You can give life to more patients like Lindsey by signing up for a blood drive near you on the Red Cross’s website: http://www.redcrossblood.org/give. You can also read more stories like Lindsey’s and see how your donation will make a difference to those in need, here at https://www.redcrossblood.org/donate-blood/how-to-donate/how-blood-donations-help.html.

  • Volunteer Week: Highlighting Tracey Howard’s work in Blood Services

    Tracey Howard joined the American Red Cross Team after retiring from 24 years in law enforcement as a federal probation officer for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, U.S. District Courts.  Tracey is a firm believer in the words of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr, “Everyone can be great, because everyone can serve.”

    Tracey Photo 2

    Her commitment to community service has given her the opportunity to work with agencies including BEBASHI, Philadelphia’s District Attorney’s Youth Aid Panel, Mayor’s Commission on Literacy, the Girls Scouts, and AARP.  In addition to serving at the American Red Cross in various capacities (humanitarian, warehouse assistant, blood donor ambassador, …. she has served over 26 years on the Multi-Media Ministry for New Covenant Church and is the current President for Valley Forge Alumnae Chapter (VFAC) of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.  She is most proud to have initiated partnership with VFAC and the American Red Cross, participating in the Sound the Alarm Program., Emergency Preparedness Workshops, Hurricane Harvey Relief, the Pillowcase Project, and blood drives for VFAC service area.

    Last year, the Red Cross in Eastern Pennsylvania collected more than 155,000 blood donations. Through voluntary donations, the American Red Cross Biomedical Services fulfills the needs of the American people for the safest, most reliable and cost-effective blood services.