Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
SALT LAKE CITY (May 28, 2025) — Eighteen-year-old Kate Macfarlane knows the lifesaving power of blood donations firsthand. While battling a rare life-threatening blood condition, Kate received critical transfusions from 79 blood donors, whose generosity helped sustain her until a bone marrow match was found. Tonight, Kate met some of those American Red Cross donors, an experience she described as deeply moving and unforgettable.
Kate, a recent graduate of Murray High School, credits the selfless actions of these donors with giving her the chance to celebrate milestones like her graduation. “I am here today because strangers made the decision to give,” Kate said. “Each donation was a piece of hope for me.”
The donors came from across the nation, from as far as Georgia, Washington State, Montana and Idaho to Utah communities like Ogden, Provo, Sandy and Bountiful. The geographic reach highlights the crucial role of the American Red Cross’s donor network in saving lives.
Kate’s Journey
Diagnosed at 14 with aplastic anemia, a condition that prevents bone marrow from producing enough blood cells, Kate’s fight required frequent transfusions. A bone marrow transplant from her sister two years ago, on the same day her classmates held a blood drive, ultimately saved her life.
“We are immensely grateful to those who donate blood, as it was vital for Kate’s survival,” said Jill Macfarlane, Kate’s mother. “Those 79 donors didn’t just give blood; they gave my daughter a future. I will forever be grateful for their selflessness and generosity.”
Blood Donations Help Save Lives
Patients like Kate depend on blood transfusions for conditions such as leukemia, kidney disease or severe injuries from accidents. With summer expected to bring a seasonal decline in donations, the need for blood is urgent. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, often called “trauma season,” hospitals see an increase in demand for transfusions due to accidents and other summer-related injuries.
“In times of crisis, blood donations save lives,” said Jeremiah Lafranca, Executive Director of the American Red Cross of Utah Greater Salt Lake Chapter. “We need donors now more than ever to ensure hospitals can meet the needs of patients in life-threatening situations.”
All blood types are urgently needed, especially Type O, the most commonly transfused blood type. Nearly 45 hospitals across Utah rely on the Red Cross to supply the blood needed for their patients. Donors can schedule an appointment using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting redcross.org/GiveBlood or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
Special Thank-You for Donors
To express gratitude, those who donate blood from May 19 to May 31, 2025, will receive an exclusive Red Cross solar lantern, while supplies last. Donors in May will also be entered to win a U.S. trip of their choice for two. Additional details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/May.
Looking Ahead
Kate is excited to begin her studies in elementary and special education at Utah State University this fall. She also teaches swimming lessons, interned as a student teacher at Grant Elementary School in Murray and volunteers at a dance studio for individuals with disabilities.
Kate’s story is a powerful reminder of the lifesaving impact of blood donations and the importance of giving year-round. One hour of your time can give someone like Kate the gift of a future.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
