Red Cross phlebotomist Candi Jefferson has spent over 20 years helping blood donors give the gift of life, a job she finds deeply fulfilling. Photographs by Mimi Teller/American Red Cross.
By Kennedy Benjamin/American Red Cross
During Phlebotomist Week, the American Cross Los Angeles Region recognizes the amazing phlebotomists who are the cornerstone of our organization’s crucial ability to provide blood to those who need it. From Feb. 12-16, the Red Cross celebrates the work of our incredible team of blood technicians.
Candi Jefferson has been with the Red Cross since 1999, starting as a clerical assistant where she assembled and packed blood bags and in 2002, became a licensed vocational nurse (LVN). Since obtaining her LVN, Jefferson has supported blood drives as a phlebotomist and became a team leader in 2019.
This September, Jefferson will celebrate her 25th year with the Red Cross. When asked her secret to staying at the same job for over two decades, her quick answer was, “I love it.”
“I love what I do, I love the mission, I love the people I work with and the impact I know it has on the community — I love it all,” said Jefferson of her work as a Red Cross blood technician.
A large part of why she loves her job is the sense of fulfillment, and not just her own. Jefferson explained that those who donate blood usually do it because their own lives, or the life of a loved one benefitted from blood donated at a Red Cross drive. For so many, donating blood is a way to give back.
Following the 9/11 attacks was when Jefferson truly understood the importance and impact blood donations can have on a community.
“Everyone showed up. The main goal was to give blood and save lives, it was a beautiful thing to experience,” said Jefferson.
When it comes to encouraging people to donate, Jefferson said she likes to explain it like an oil change: Getting rid of old blood cells that someone else can use, allows your body to generate new blood cells. Along with the physical health benefits, Johnson said that donating blood can work wonders to bring positive energy your way.
“I like to donate at least three or four times a year, I think it brings good karma,” said Jefferson.
With an emergency blood shortage currently at hand, the Red Cross needs donors now more than ever. For more information on how to find donor eligibility or to make an appointment at a blood drive near you, visit redcrossblood.org or download the Red Cross blood donor app on your smartphone.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org/la.
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