By John Rose

Serving others is a way of life for American Red Cross volunteers like Joe Hall. But a recent blood donation revealed he is among just 15% of Americans uniquely suited to help save our nation’s most vulnerable people: babies.

Following a Power Red donation, through which Joe was able to safely give twice the amount of red blood cells compared to a regular blood donation, it was discovered his blood tested negative for Cytomegalovirus (CMV), a flu-like virus that most Americans have been exposed to at some point in their lives. While CMV is generally harmless to adults, it can be dangerous and even fatal for infants, particularly those with compromised immune systems such as newborns.

The American Red Cross’ Heroes for Babies program identifies CMV-negative blood donors, especially universal donors like Joe who have type O negative blood, and prioritizes their gifts for blood transfusions to babies. In recognition of this life-saving act, the Red Cross honored Joe with a Heroes for Babies certificate.

"Knowing that my O-negative blood may help give a baby a fighting chance filled me with overwhelming joy and deep gratitude," said Joe. “It also reinforced my commitment to continue donating every time I am able. To know that something so simple can make such a life-saving difference is both humbling and inspiring.”

As a father, Joe finds that his Heroes for Babies recognition touches him in a deeply personal way. He understands what it means to love a child with all his heart and recognizes how precious each chance at life truly is.

“I love hiking, nature, and the outdoors, and I have come to believe deeply that babies, animals, and nature represent some of the most innocent and precious parts of life,” said Joe. “They deserve protection, love, and care. To me, that is part of our responsibility as human beings.”

Joe’s life-saving blood donations are just one chapter in his long history of helping others. He served in the U.S. Army from 1997 to 2006, which included two deployments to Kosovo. As one of the first soldiers stationed at Camp Bondsteel in 1999, he witnessed human crises firsthand – as well as the incredible impact of people coming together in service to one another.

Joe’s commitment to service stayed with him long after his time with the military ended. In addition to volunteering with the American Red Cross – notably during the Hurricane Helene response in 2024 – he helps at the Animal Shelter of Sullivan County where he walks dogs and helps promote adoptions. He also served as Branch President for Branch 1999 of the National Association of Letter Carriers, for which he raised funds and led annual food drives. 

"You never truly know how your actions may save a life, change a life, or bring hope to someone in their darkest moment," said Joe. "But when all of us do our part, together, we can truly help alleviate human suffering".

Could your blood make you a hero for babies? Learn more about blood donation and sign up for a nearby blood drive by visiting redcrossblood.org.