By Tara Thompson, American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region Communications Volunteer

Henry Dall's journey into the world of blood donation began not with a grand plan, but with a simple act of neighborly compassion. In the mid-80s, Dall learned his neighbor's daughter was battling Guillain-Barre syndrome, a condition affecting the nerve cells. The primary treatment is regular platelet transfusions, and Dall didn’t hesitate to step forward. He began regular platelet donations at the University of Utah Hospital.

Reflecting on his initiation into blood donation, Dall recalls, "I didn't know much about platelets at the time, but I knew I could try to help." His initial altruistic gesture soon evolved into a steadfast commitment that has spanned nearly four decades. As his career progressed as a civilian engineer at Hill Air Force Base, he transitioned to blood donations facilitated by the Red Cross, where he has continued to contribute regularly ever since.

Dall's dedication underscores a critical message: the perpetual need for blood and platelet donations. He emphasizes, "Donations are constantly needed," particularly highlighting the decline in platelet donations over the years, exacerbated by factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic. He stresses the significance of every donation, emphasizing that a single contribution can have a monumental impact, potentially saving multiple lives.

What are Platelets?
Platelets are tiny cells in your blood that form clots and stop bleeding. For millions of Americans, they are essential to surviving and fighting cancer, chronic diseases, and traumatic injuries. Every 15 seconds someone needs platelets. Platelets must be used within five days and new donors are needed every day.

What is it like to donate platelets?
Platelet donation uses a machine to extract just your platelets and then returns the rest of your blood back to you. From start to finish, it takes about three hours. Both arms are used during a platelet donation because blood is drawn from one arm then the platelets are extracted using a machine, and the remaining blood components are returned to you through the other arm.

You will be able to provide in one platelet donation what would normally be collected from up to five whole blood donations. In fact, some platelet donations yield enough platelets for two or three patients. You may be able to donate platelets up to 24 times a year compared to a maximum of 6 times a year for a whole blood donation.

A tradition of generous giving
Over the course of his remarkable 40-year journey, Dall estimates he has donated several hundred times, each instance a testament to his unwavering commitment to serving others. While he modestly refrains from recounting specific stories beyond his initial inspiration, his legacy is evident in the countless lives he has touched through his selfless contributions.

In discussing his enduring impact, Dall remains humble, emphasizing that the value of his contributions lies not in personal accolades but in the collective difference they have made. "It has always seemed the right thing to do," he reflects. "I'll continue as long as I can and encourage others to do the same."

Make an appointment to donate today
Schedule an appointment near you at redcrossblood.org, through the free Blood Donor App or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS. Speed up your check-in process by completing your health history questionnaire through our RapidPass online or in your app. Do not take aspirin products for at least 2 full calendar days prior to your platelet donation appointment.