By Mariwyn Evans, Red Cross volunteer
Everyone has a different reason to donate blood through the American Red Cross, but few can match high-schooler Janet Rosson’s. The Nashville native gave blood in her biology 2 class for extra credit. “I wanted to get that A,” she recalls. So began her 40-year commitment to help save lives through blood donations.
“In class, I learned that my blood type was O negative, which makes me a universal donor,” says Rosson. “I was the only one in my class, and my teacher explained how valuable that was. That was the beginning of my interest.”
Rosson continued to donate as an adult—mostly through blood drives at the companies where she worked. “I would meet other employees with O negative at the drives and encourage them to join me in giving. We would get a group together and make an event of it—giving blood and then going out to lunch or dinner to treat ourselves,” she says.
Rosson’s commitment gained a new depth when her father developed multiple myeloma, a form of bone cancer, and required regular transfusions. “My father’s life was extended many times because of blood donations. I also had several friends whose lives were prolonged,” she says.
These days, Rosson’s main motivation for donating focuses on supporting others in need, she has not lost her competitive spirit. “My goal is to give 10 gallons of blood; I’ve given 8 ½ gallons so far.” Donors can donate red blood every 56 days.
Even Covid 19 did not deter Rosson’s commitment. “I figured people still needed blood, even in a pandemic. Plus, I really wanted to get out of the house,” she jokes.
“I realize donating blood may not be for everyone, and some can’t give because of health concerns,” says Rosson. Still, she encourages people to try it. “It just takes a couple of hours out of your life, and you could truly be saving someone else’s.”
Blood donation safety
The Red Cross follows a high standard of safety and infection control. The Red Cross will continue to socially distance wherever possible at blood drives, donation centers and facilities. While donors no longer have to wear a face mask, individuals may choose to continue to wear a mask for any reason. The Red Cross will also adhere to more stringent face mask requirements per state and/or local guidance, or at the request of blood drive sponsors. Donors are asked to schedule an appointment prior to arriving at a drive.
How to donate blood
Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in.
Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.