June 14 is World Blood Donor Day, an internationally recognized day dedicated to celebrating blood donors for their lifesaving contributions and raising awareness of the vital need for blood donations. 

The American Red Cross supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood, thanks to the contributions of volunteer donors who help ensure new moms, premature babies, cancer patients and accident victims have access to safe, lifesaving blood.

“I was once in the position where I needed someone's blood in order to live,” Olson said.

Marylou Jung, a Red Cross blood donor from Littlestown, encourages people to donate to support people in need

“You will make a difference,” Jung said, “if not locally, somewhere where someone really needs it.”

Emily Olson, of Smethport, is motivated to give blood out of gratitude for the donors who helped save her life.

“I was once in the position where I needed someone's blood in order to live,” Olson said. “I felt I needed to share my own to help save others.”

Donors like Robin Horner, of Lancaster, gain a sense of fulfillment from giving blood. 

“I am healthy and blessed,” Horner said. “I would like to know perhaps I helped others achieve that.”

Amber McFadden, of Summit Hill, is inspired to donate blood by her late husband, Andy, as blood transfusions allowed her to spend more time with him before his passing. McFadden urges those able to donate to do so.

“It can be the difference of life or death for many individuals,” McFadden said.

Patients are counting on blood and platelet donors. Book a time to give now by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.