Dave Baker recalls giving blood for the first time more than 40 years ago as a student at Indiana University of Pennsylvania.

“I knew people who had donated blood, but I never understood how to do it or where to do it,” he said. “So when a blood drive came to the college, I wanted to see what it was all about.”

That was an impressive 157 pints – almost 20 gallons – ago.

When he moved to Bucks County after college, his employer hosted American Red Cross blood drives 4 times per year. And for 30 years, Dave rolled up his sleeve and donated.

“It was easy,” he said. “I didn’t have to go anywhere or look for anything. I just went downstairs and did it.”

His donation routine didn’t lapse when Dave retired 7 years ago. In fact, he started donating more frequently – up to 6 times per year. He also began volunteering as a Red Cross Blood Donor Ambassador – someone who helps the blood drive run smoothly and manages a blood donor’s experience.

Dave volunteers at least once a week throughout Bucks County. The best part, he says, is meeting and interacting with people, and of course, being helpful. His advice for first-time blood donors: “It will be a pinch and a burn, and you’ll never know [the donation] happened.”

He points out that if you need an additional reason to donate, you can find out where your blood goes on the free Red Cross Blood Donor App.

As for Dave, he says he donates, “because I can and they need it.”

He also shared a piece of wisdom for prospective donors. “You don’t start at 157, but you don’t get there if you don’t give.”

The American Red Cross is experiencing an emergency blood shortage as the nation faces the lowest number of people giving blood in nearly 20 years. Blood and platelet donations are needed now to help alleviate the shortage and ensure lifesaving medical procedures are not delayed. To make an appointment, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

- Photo and story by Alana Mauger