By Laurie Engel
American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region Volunteer

Thousands of generous people donate to the Red Cross every day. In fact, countless individuals nationwide are at the heart of delivering the Red Cross mission, donating money, time, blood – and each is a unique person, with reasons for donating and often, a remarkable story to tell.

Some donor stories are uniquely remarkable. Like Stephen Ehrlich’s
Stephen estimates he has donated blood about 10 times during his 24-year residence in the Salt Lake valley and says, “If I stay healthy as I age, I would be happy to continue my donations in the future. Each time I donate my blood, it makes me feel good that I have done service to someone.”

Stephen is DeafBlind and passionate about blood donation. “I have seen many victims and patients alike suffering from the low and insufficient amount of blood during hospitalization,” he says. “I am deeply touched by the crisis.” And he thinks everyone should be, no ifs, ands, or buts. According to Stephen:

If someone says it is too much trouble to donate blood
He would ask that person what trouble they are facing with blood donation and simply encourage them to contact the Red Cross for counsel and consultation. “They would certainly be happy to offer options for a good solution to lessen the trouble,” he says. “In the long run, everyone can feel comfortable doing their part.”

If someone says they have no time to donate
Stephen says he would try to persuade and convince that person to find time. “I would encourage them to develop time management skill!” he assesses. “I would try to help them find some dates available on their calendar, just like making a dental or medical appointment.” He says he would motivate that person to try to find a blood drive close to home. “It’s possible to find time to donate blood – at the right place and the right time.”

If someone has a situation that makes it difficult to donate
In Stephen’s case as DeafBlind, that has meant the need for a tactile American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter to meet his communication accessibility needs. According to Heidi Ruster, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region, the effort will always be made to assist donors in any way necessary. “Our blood collection and donation program is one of inclusivity,” Ruster stresses. “Bringing in an ASL interpreter means a dedicated donor like Stephen gets to contribute to the Red Cross mission to save lives. It’s our honor.”

And Stephen says he appreciates the organization’s “heartfelt willingness” to provide the assistance. “In return, I have the privilege of making my donation. Thus, the Red Cross, especially Regional Representative Anita Kay, and I are a team, campaigning to promote the cause and importance of blood donation -- of which the public needs to be more aware.”

What’s your excuse?

How to donate blood
Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device 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.