by Caitlin Cox

The American Red Cross has many blood and platelet donors with different motives when it comes to visiting our blood donation centers and sharing the gift of life. These are just some of the many reasons that inspire the Chang sisters, Angie and Annie, to spend quality time together, creating a special bond as they donate blood.

They have both been rolling up their sleeves to donate blood or platelets for more than a decade with their preferred location being the Oakland Blood Donation Center. Sometimes they donate on separate occasions or different Red Cross blood centers but they enjoy donating together most of all. They’ve been able to build fond memories with each other, with the blood center volunteers and particularly enjoy the variety of snacks in the canteening area. Donating blood gives them extra quality time to hang out and catch up with each other while saving lives!

Angie has been able to donate more than 18 units of blood and also serves as an inspiration to her younger sister. Her bravery and consistency helped Annie get over her fears of donating for the first time.

Angie was excited to take her younger sister to donate for her first time, and says, “It was a nice way to find a friend and build camaraderie. I think my sister is even braver than me.”

Since both Angie and Annie’s blood type is AB positive, they not only donate blood and platelets, but they are also excellent candidates for plasma donations. Plasma is commonly given to trauma, burn and shock patients, as well as people with severe liver disease or multiple clotting factor deficiencies. It helps boost the patient’s blood volume, which can prevent shock, and helps with blood clotting.

The AB type is the only universal plasma and can be given to patients of any blood type. This means that type AB plasma transfusions can be given immediately, without losing precious time determining if the patient’s blood type is compatible. In emergency medicine, such as caring for a major trauma or burn patient, time saved can mean the difference between life and death.

Sisters who donate together, stay together. Angie and Annie Chang are just two of the many Red Crossers who hope that their story gives more people a reason to donate! Donating blood helps countless people and is one of many ways to make a difference in someone’s life. Thank you for sharing your unique bond and helping save lives!

To learn more about blood donation and to schedule a donation appointment, visit redcrossblood.org.