Kellie McNeave donates blood for the first time as her husband Shaun looks on during a blood drive at the Maryland State Fairgrounds the day before Thanksgiving 2024.
By: Scott Marder, American Red Cross Regional
Communications Manager
Thanksgiving is a season of gratitude, as well as a time to reflect on our blessings and give back to others. For many in Timonium, Maryland, the spirit of Thanksgiving came alive at a Red Cross blood drive at the Maryland Fairgrounds, sponsored by Chick-fil-A of Baltimore, the day before the holiday. With generosity and compassion, donors lined up to give the ultimate gift: the gift of life.
For the Lutzky family of Baltimore, MD, donating blood is more than a tradition; it’s a family legacy. Steve Lutzky, a longtime donor with nearly five gallons to his name, brought his sons Nicholas and Zachary to join him. Zach, a graduate student at Rice University, started donating in college and continues to make it a priority. His younger brother Nick, a student at Dartmouth, came that day to make his third donation, having first donated during his time at Gilman School. For the Lutzkys, this act of giving is a heartfelt way to celebrate the season of thanks.
Courtney Carr, also from Baltimore, has been a steadfast blood donor since Sept. 11, 2001. Watching the tragic events unfold on television that morning moved him to act. That same afternoon, he donated blood for the first time. Since then, Courtney has made regular donations every two months, contributing an extraordinary eight gallons over the years.
In Timonium, Shaun and Kellie McNeave shared a special moment at the blood drive. While Shaun was an experienced donor, this was Kellie’s first time. Smiling as she completed her donation near Steve’s bed, Kellie expressed how easy and rewarding the process was. Inspired by her experience, she plans to return and donate again in the future.
Theresa and James Sexton, a dedicated husband-and-wife duo, also made the day special. Theresa volunteered as a blood ambassador, welcoming and assisting donors, while James, a Red Cross volunteer who helps transport blood, donated himself. Their teamwork exemplified the spirit of giving that Thanksgiving represents.
These donors, along with many others, gave thanks by giving hope and life to those in need. You can join them by visiting RedCrossBlood.org or downloading the Red Cross Blood Donation app to schedule an appointment. The entire process takes only about an hour, and a single donation can save multiple lives.
This holiday season, express your gratitude in a meaningful way. Give blood and give the gift of life.
Support all the urgent humanitarian needs of the American Red Cross.
Find a drive and schedule a blood donation appointment today.
Your time and talent can make a real difference in people’s lives. Discover the role that's right for you and join us today!
