By Mike Tierney/American Red Cross

The American Red Cross plays a vital role in saving lives through blood donations, a mission that Jose Alvarez embraced during a high school assembly, where faculty members encouraged students to consider the impact of giving blood.

The speaker intentionally repeated the word “needle” numerous times to draw a reaction from the youthful audience. “I remember finding it funny,” shared Alvarez.

Then the presenter turned serious, pointing out that the time required to say “needle” is the same required to insert it into an arm. In other words, it’s completed in the blink of an eye.

Alvarez was sold – especially since the experience stirred memories of his grandfather in Mexico, who had a rare blood type. His need was so great that donors were sought using a radio broadcast. 

From that day forward, Alvarez has remained a dedicated blood donor. “I just fell in love with it,” Alvarez said of donating.

Alvarez continues to serve as a regular donor, aside from a brief lapse while in college. At 31, he has broadened his involvement with the Red Cross by serving on the board of directors for the San Gabriel Valley and Pomona chapter.

A personal connection with a blood transfusion recipient further deepened Alvarez’s appreciation for the process. When Alvarez’s future father-in-law was diagnosed with stomach cancer, he needed a double transfusion. While a sufficient supply was available, Alvarez made an appointment to donate the following week. His soon-to-be father-in-law lived long enough to attend his daughter’s wedding eight months later.

Alvarez hopes his involvement on the board will provide a platform to further spread the word about donating, which includes setting up a blood drive at his workplace.

“I consider myself a leader,” says the Pasadena resident. “And you need to keep learning from other leaders. I’m even more committed and cannot see myself not donating blood for the rest of my life.”

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.