Mimi Teller/American Red Cross

When Mercy Piñeda joined the American Red Cross nearly 25 years ago, she expected to stay for only a couple of years. Instead, she found a purpose that has kept her committed to the mission for nearly a quarter century.

That sense of purpose became deeply personal when her mother needed five units of blood. Although Piñeda had worked in health care and frequently met patients who had received transfusions, seeing her own mother rely on donated blood gave her a new understanding of its lifesaving impact. The experience inspired her to become a blood collector. From then on, every unit she collected represented more than blood—it represented a patient, a family and another chance at life.

Today, that perspective continues to shape the way Piñeda approaches her work. Whether she's supporting a first-time donor or a longtime regular, she knows every donation has the potential to help someone facing cancer treatment, surgery, a traumatic injury or another medical emergency. It's also why she gives blood herself, regularly donating through both Power Red and Whole Blood collections.

Over the years, Piñeda has witnessed countless inspiring moments. One that recently stood out involved a woman who came to donate for the first time after her daughter received a blood transfusion six months earlier. The experience had transformed the family from blood recipients to blood donors, creating a full-circle moment that reinforced the importance of every donation.

Working with donors for so many years has also strengthened Piñeda's appreciation for people's generosity. She says most arrive eager to help others, motivated simply by the opportunity to do something good. Even when donors are nervous, hesitant or having a difficult day, Piñeda sees an opportunity to provide patience, reassurance and gratitude, helping turn the experience into a positive one and encouraging them to return.

As a veteran blood technician, Piñeda is also passionate about dispelling misconceptions. One of the most common concerns she encounters from people considering donating blood is the fear that the process will be painful. In reality, she says blood collection teams use a variety of techniques to help ensure donors are comfortable throughout the experience.

While the lifesaving impact of the work remains her greatest source of pride, Piñeda is equally honored by the opportunity to support the next generation of blood technicians. Over the years, colleagues have sought her out for guidance and mentorship, something she views as one of the most rewarding aspects of her career.

Looking back on nearly 25 years of service, Piñeda remains humbled by the role she plays in the blood collection process.

As we celebrate Blood Technician Week with special recognitions, lunches and heartfelt appreciation, Piñeda's story serves as a powerful reminder of the dedication, compassion and expertise blood technicians bring to their work every day. Behind every blood donation is a professional like Piñeda, helping ensure lifesaving blood is available whenever and wherever it is needed.

To honor blood technicians and the patients counting on transfusions, schedule a blood or platelet donation today. Every donation has the potential to help save more than one life and provides hope to those facing medical treatments, traumatic injuries and other emergencies. Visit redcross.org/blood for more information. 

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 or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.