By David Olejarz, regional communications director

On a recent Tuesday, Irvin and Will Nichols came to the American Red Cross in Lansing to donate blood. There they were, situated on beds across from each other, engaged in a selfless act of generosity that goes back decades. The fact that it marked a milestone of sorts made the occasion all the sweeter.

For Will, the donation was his 112th, the equivalent of 14 gallons of blood. For his father, Irvin, the donation came eight months shy of his 100th birthday. By his estimate, Irvin has donated the equivalent of seven gallons of blood over the years.

“I was pleasantly surprised when I found out he was getting up in the 100s in donations,” Irvin said of his son. “That was a real thrill to have a son doing that.”

A U.S. Navy veteran, Irvin worked in blood services at the Red Cross in Lansing in the 1980s, then served as the chapter manager. Prior to that, he served on the chapter’s board of directors and held the position of treasurer. It’s an organization dear to his heart.

Will credits his father for inspiring him to donate. He first donated as a college student.

“It’s certainly one of the reasons why I’ve been so determined to keep giving blood,” Will said. “I know this is something he did and was important to him. I’m glad that I can do that.”

The Nichols are part of the 3 percent of the U.S. population that donates blood. They encouraged people who are eligible to give blood to step forward and help those in need, especially now as the Red Cross faces a nationwide blood shortage.

In most states, individuals who are 17 years of age, weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be able to donate blood. There is no upper age limit for donating. A blood donation appointment takes about one hour and includes a brief health screening. The actual donation process takes about eight to 10 minutes.

“The time it takes is incidental,” Irvin said. “You never know when somebody is going to need the unit of blood you are donating.”

Will, a university professor, said it is the self-satisfaction knowing that his donated blood is helping others that is most gratifying.

“When you realize how easy it is and how good it makes you feel, you keep doing it,” he said. “It is rewarding to do, and I would hope that people make a lifelong habit of it.”