By: Van Tran, Northwest Region Volunteer

Sometimes, it takes only one story for us to change our lives. This was the case for Joel Sackett in Wenatchee, Washington. His first blood donation was motivated by the person who he built a house for: Charlene Woodward.

Charlene was a volunteer with the American Red Cross in 1980 when she was diagnosed with aplastic anemia. Aplastic anemia is a life-threatening condition in which the bone marrow is damaged and unable to produce enough blood cells. Charlene became blood transfusion dependent.

To stay alive, Charlene received two units of red blood cells and platelets every three to five weeks. Charlene was very grateful for all the blood she received and decided to promote blood donation.

Inspired by her story, Joel Sackett started to donate blood in late 1980. This soon became a habit. Joel is now a consistent blood donor, as he tries to make sure he donates blood every two or three months.

Joel says he is pleased with the donation process he experiences in the Red Cross Northwest Region.

“I always have to answer the health questionnaires and have rapid tests done before donating. During the blood draw, they let me sit in a comfortable recliner. After that, they give me some snacks and make me sit for ten minutes to make sure I am okay," he said.

Both Charlene and Joel now continue to encourage people to consider donating blood. For Charlene, it's something she's personally experienced the impact of.

“Had I not received blood transfusions, I would have died,” she said.

Joel is 66 years old and is now on his way to his 80th blood donation. When asked why he continues to do so, Joel simply said, “It helps people in need. It helps save lives.”