Morgan Vaughn has been donating blood since high school in Los Angeles, California. Vaughn’s cousin coordinated his high school’s blood drive, and like any good cousin, Vaughn had to show his support. What was once a way to support his cousin became a passion for donating blood and later platelets.

“Every time I see one [blood drive] within driving distance, I sign up and go. I checked the Red Cross App every month and saw the Wichita Falls one listed, so I had to show up,” he shares with a smile.

Vaughn donates platelets once a month. Since moving to Wichita Falls, Vaughn admits finding blood drives closer to him has been more challenging.

“I have the blessing of good health, and I wanted to do something with that blessing, which has brought me to blood and platelet donations. I will give back as much as I can as often as I can.

“Donating blood is quick and easy. It makes a big impact on those who need lifesaving blood. For us, it takes one hour of our day, and it’s a simple way to give back.”

Vaughn was initially intimated when he was asked about trying a platelet donation. During one of his routine blood donations, the phlebotomist explained a platelet donation, and Vaughn said, “Why not? I will schedule one for my next visit.”

After the first time, Vaughn experienced how easy a platelet donation was and the impact it made. Being aware of the constant need for platelets and his ability to continue donating his own, Vaughn has dedicated his time to donating as often as he can.

As a platelet donor, Vaughn used the 2-3 hours he donated as his “me time.” “I get to watch Netflix in a comfy chair with a blanket and snacks while the phlebotomists take care of me. I go after work, and by the time I finish, I come home to dinner being ready, and it’s a nice personal way to end my day. I encourage anyone interested in donating platelets to take the leap and see how great you feel after your first donation.”

To find a blood drive near you or to schedule a platelet donation, download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).