Story told by: Fernanda Nilson, Red Cross volunteer

In May 2020, Lee Jeter lost part of his left leg in a motorcycle accident. He survived, in part, because of blood donated by strangers he may never meet. Now, he is paying that back, one donation at a time.

"A lot of people don't make it from the kind of accident I had," Lee said. "This is a second life for me."  

Lee’s recovery journey wasn’t easy. At times, he couldn’t help but wonder “why me?” and for a while focused on the negative impacts of the accident on his life. But eventually he decided to look at the positives: he was still here and could use this second chance to do something positive for others.

He didn't have to look far for a reason to start giving blood. He once needed it himself. "I've had blood transfusions before, so I know what it's like to have to use other people's donations of blood," he said. "Since they saved my life, all I can do is do the same for others." 

The American Red Cross has declared only the second national blood crisis in its history, and patients may already be feeling the impact. Blood donations have fallen to a four-year summer low, worsening this summer’s emergency shortage. Donors are asked to take action immediately to help save lives.

All blood types are needed, but the situation is especially dire for type O blood as the Red Cross is now limiting distribution of these blood products to hospitals. The supply of type O positive blood has now fallen below a one-day supply 

Since his accident, Lee has donated regularly, showing up wherever there is a need and encouraging others to do the same. He even donated platelets for the first time at our Columbia blood donation center. We asked him why, and the answer was simple:

 "Anywhere I can help," he said. "Pay it forward for the next person." His message to others is just as direct. "Any donation can save a life," Lee said. "I encourage everybody from any age, race, or ethnicity to give blood. You never know when you may need it." 

The Red Cross must collect enough blood every day to meet the needs of accident and burn victims, heart surgery, and organ transplant patients, and those receiving treatment for leukemia, cancer, or sickle cell disease.

To book an appointment to give blood or platelets, or for more information, please visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).