By Sarah Martin
American Red Cross of Utah, Communications Manager

The American Red Cross is celebrating Phlebotomists Recognition Week, Feb. 12-16, by honoring the dedicated team of local phlebotomists who play a critical role in helping ensure blood is available to patients in need. One of these local phlebotomists is closing in on her one-year anniversary with the Red Cross—Jena Bishop says her path to phlebotomy began with a terrifying medical diagnosis for one of her children.

A life-changing diagnosis
“I look at the donors I meet and talk to and I think, it could have been them, it could have been their donation that helped to save my son’s life.” Jena’s son was diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia in 2018, a type of cancer that impacts the bone marrow and can stop the healthy production of blood. For years, her son’s treatment included medication, chemotherapy, and regular blood and platelet transfusions.

“I know on a very personal level how important these donations are, how important it is that the blood is clean and safe.” Her son’s cancer took a dangerous turn right during the COVID-19 pandemic and she says getting treatment became even more difficult. “During COVID, the fact that the Red Cross was still collecting blood and people were still giving, made all the difference for my son.”

Joining the mission to help other children in need
By late 2022, her son’s cancer was fully in remission and Jena was looking for a career change. “I was a substitute teacher for years, but I wanted to do something to give back to cancer kids. My husband is a long-time donor with the Red Cross and suggested that I help collect blood as a phlebotomist.” Jena completed her training and began as a Red Cross Phlebotomist in March of 2023.

“I absolutely love working for the Red Cross. I feel so honored to be part of the blood donation process.”

The role of Red Cross Phlebotomists
As the provider of nearly half the nation’s blood supply, the Red Cross collects, tests, and distributes over 5 million units a year. “This would not be possible without the hard work of our dedicated phlebotomists,” said Dr. Walter Kelley, Medical Director for the Rocky Mountain Division of the American Red Cross.

“Phlebotomists ensure blood draws go smoothly and safely while interacting with and supporting the donors,” Dr. Kelley said. “They are a vital connection between blood donors and the recipients of lifesaving transfusions.”

Established by the American Medical Technologists (AMT), Phlebotomists Recognition Week recognizes and celebrates phlebotomists’ vital role in maintaining patient health and promoting lab efficiency and effectiveness.

Support your community by giving blood
You have the power to help kids like Jena’s son and so many others in need of life-saving blood products. Schedule a blood donation appointment today by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting redcrossblood.org, or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).