By Victor Ledezma
American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region Volunteer

Sandra always saw blood donation as a simple act of kindness. Growing up in Hawaii, she understood the importance of giving back, especially in a place where the population is small, and visitors rarely donate. Her commitment to this cause was unwavering, even when she moved to Las Vegas. But during one routine donation, Sandra encountered an unexpected turn.

“I went in to donate, but my blood pressure was too high,” Sandra recalls. Initially unconcerned, she followed the Red Cross's advice to seek medical attention. This guidance proved to be more than just a protocol; it was a lifesaver. What she assumed was a minor issue turned out to be a significant health alert. “They could’ve just sent me away, but instead, they encouraged me to take action. They made sure I felt cared for.”

Her doctor promptly prescribed medication for high blood pressure and cholesterol. “I was in shock,” she admits. “People always say, ‘Give blood, save a life.’ But giving blood saved my life.” Donating blood is deeply personal for Sandra. In 2019, when her mother required multiple blood transfusions, Sandra, unable to donate directly due to mismatched blood types, was grateful for other donors who stepped in. “Knowing others were there for my mom was a powerful moment,” she reflects.

Health Insights Through Blood Donation
For Sandra, giving blood has become more than just a generous act—it’s a health marker. “It keeps me on track, motivates me to live better, and allows me to help others,” she shared.

Donors play a crucial role in providing lifesaving care to patients in need. Additionally, they receive benefits through a free mini-health assessment conducted by trained Red Cross staff. Before donating, all donors undergo a health screening. Vital signs like blood pressure, hemoglobin, and pulse are checked and recorded in the donor's online profile, allowing them to track and monitor their health results and access past health data at any time. This online profile serves as a valuable resource for tracking health goals and sharing information with healthcare providers, making good health integral to the donor's journey.

All blood donations undergo testing in a state-of-the-art Red Cross laboratory where trained technicians perform over 12 tests on samples from each unit of donated blood. Each unit is screened for infectious diseases such as HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B and C, as well as for unexpected antibodies that might cause transfusion reactions.

“Blood donations are used to help patients in need, but if someone cannot give because of a medical screening, our trained Red Cross staff inform them of the issue and urge them to see their doctor,” said Rachel Flanigan, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Southern Nevada Chapter.

Dedicated and Caring Volunteers
Sandra’s story extends beyond her personal health journey—it highlights the profound impact of the Red Cross and its dedicated volunteers. “Their volunteers welcome me warmly every time. They make you feel like you’re contributing to something truly significant, and that means everything to me,” she shared.

Sandra witnessed the Red Cross's vital role during critical events like Hurricanes Iwa and Iniki in Hawaii. “I vividly recall Hurricane Iwa battering my island, and the Red Cross was there, providing crucial aid. Years later, when Hurricane Iniki struck, the Red Cross once again stood by us, guiding people through some of their darkest hours.” Her story underscores the indispensable presence of the Red Cross during crises and the lasting impression their compassion leaves on those they help.

Join Sandra and Give Blood
Sandra’s experience is a reminder of the dual impact of blood donation. It highlights not only the potential to save others but also the importance of self-awareness in health. With every donation, Sandra continues to give, motivated by the knowledge that she is part of something larger than herself. Her story is a call to all of us to consider donating blood—not just as an act of charity but as a commitment to our community and personal health. Now is the time to act. Join Sandra and make a difference today; a simple donation could be lifesaving in more ways than one.

Donors can easily schedule an appointment through the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

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.