By Elaine Reilley

Elaine Reilley is a long-time blood donor and she shares her reasons for giving.

“First and foremost, it’s an easy way to help those in need, and with O- blood, I know I can help many.

“But my biggest influence was my father. For as long as I can remember, he donated blood. He is 94 years old, and I had a discussion with him last night as to how much he had donated.

He went right out and got me every one of his donor cards – he has saved them all!

“The last one he had showed a lifetime donor of 363 units, and the back of the card was filled, so I’m sure it was many more.

“After years of donating whole blood, he then donated Plasma, and then onto platelets. He received an Apheresis Achievement Award in 2008 from the Red Cross for donating 18 or more times that year.

“A trip to the donation center downtown was an outing that he always enjoyed.

“My other strong influence was my aunt who just passed away at the age of 99. At her funeral, they mentioned that she was proud that she had donated over 10 gallons!

“So, as you see, I come from a long line of donors, and though I know I will never meet the goals they reached, I will do my part the best I can.”