By Volunteer Julia Zauner
Five years ago, Crystal Hooper survived a medical event that required an emergency blood transfusion that ultimately saved her life. That experience inspired her to become a blood donor and to encourage others to donate through drives held at her workplace.
In the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic—during a period when hospitals were overwhelmed and visitors were not allowed—Crystal began hemorrhaging. She sought medical help from several doctors but was initially turned away for treatment because she wasn’t quite sick enough. By the time her hemoglobin level dropped to a dangerously low level, she was finally admitted to the hospital.
Once hospitalized, Crystal received four units of blood.
"My body was shutting down," she recalled.
“But with each transfusion, I was getting more energy.”
Those transfusions stabilized her condition and allowed her to undergo surgery. Today, Crystal is in full remission.
After recovering, Crystal felt compelled to give back. She became a blood donor and began hosting blood drives. “I felt that I needed to give back and I can use my story. I received four units of blood and those came from generous donors out there. I might not be here if someone had not donated.”
Last year, when Crystal became Branch Manager of the Manville Public Library, she continued a partnership with the American Red Cross that had been established by the previous manager.
“I was immediately on board,” she said.
Since last spring, the library has hosted four blood drives and plans to continue on a quarterly basis. Each drive attracts approximately 35 donors. Crystal likes to think how the donations collected at the Manville Library are saving lives.
Crystal makes a point to personally express her gratitude to the donors at her Library. “Whenever we have a drive, I thank the donors. I share how a blood donation saved my life – this is very personal. You are making a huge difference in someone’s life and it takes all of us to make a difference in the world.”
Crystal and her team actively promote the drives by reaching out to library patrons, posting flyers throughout the community, and connecting with local restaurants, police, and fire stations. Staff members have embraced the effort, often inviting family and friends to participate, creating a welcoming, community-centered atmosphere.
“You don’t think about it, but it is amazing how many medical procedures need blood,” said Crystal. “Donating is not scary at all. It is easy to donate, plus you get good snacks and great company.”
The Need Is Urgent
Right now, the American Red Cross is experiencing a severe blood shortage. Harsh winter weather has led to the cancellation of hundreds of blood drives, and snow and ice have made it more difficult to transport vital blood products to hospitals.
Please consider making an appointment to donate blood or platelets. You can schedule by using the Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). All who donate through February 28, 2026, will receive a $20 e-gift card to a merchant of choice. Details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/Heart.
Host a Blood Drive
If your organization is interested in hosting a blood drive, contact the Red Cross at 1-800-733-2767. Red Cross staff manage the logistics with minimal impact on daily operations.
“Everyone at the Red Cross is wonderful to work with,” Crystal said.
“If you’re even a little curious about hosting a drive, reach out. You never know whose life you might save.”
