By: Abby Walker/American Red Cross
Inside the Red Cross Blood and Platelet Donation Center in Richland, Washington, phlebotomists work tirelessly to ensure the collection and distribution of blood to hospital shelves. It’s a job that is vital to the health of a community, and it’s a job that Diana Heilman finds fulfilling.
“Phlebotomists work hard to help people donate blood and to save other people’s lives,” said Diana. “I really enjoy my job because I get to help my community."
Diana has been working with the American Red Cross for more than a decade. Her role as a phlebotomist is crucial to the local team, as she is fluent in both Spanish and English. Her supervisor, Sarah Houghton, says Diana’s helpful attitude and bilingual ability is instrumental in the team’s success.
"Diana helps us create an inclusive environment for all who come to our Red Cross blood drives," said Sarah Houghton, Red Cross Collections Supervisor in Richland. "Her friendly demeanor and ability to speak both Spanish and English ensures clear communication and helps Spanish-speaking donors feel comfortable and understood.“
Diana Heilman inside the Red Cross Blood and Platelet Donation Center in Richland, Washington.
This bilingual skill is critical for making sure everyone feels welcome when they come to donate blood. When blood donors of all races and ethnicities contribute, it helps to better meet the needs of patients by providing more compatible blood units. Additionally, maintaining a diverse blood supply is important to minimize the risk of complications during transfusion therapy, because blood given to patients with rare blood types must be matched very closely. A friendly smile and meaningful communication can often be the first steps in building that diverse blood supply.
“Diana’s willingness to assist with translation not only enhances the donor experience but also strengthens our team's ability to serve the diverse community we support,” said Houghton.
Diana brings a multitude of other valuable skills to her role as well, noting flexibility, confidence and patience as key qualities needed to succeed as a phlebotomist. It’s important to be able to adapt to every person’s needs while they donate to make their experience as comfortable as possible, Diana shared.
Diana’s dedication has made her a standout member of the team, and she’s already looking ahead to a future leadership role.
“I’m excited,” she said, “because I get to lead the Red Cross with efficiency and bring a great service to our communities!”
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