You’re never too old to donate blood products!
Bob Duncan in Evansville is an example of helping others through donations, no matter your age. In June, Bob celebrated his 90th birthday by donating platelets. On the day of his appointment, Bob made his regular visit to the Red Cross Blood and Platelet Donation Center on South Stockwell Road. It was just two days before his 90th birthday, and staff surprised Bob with balloons and presents for an early celebration. The occasion also marked his 693rd unit donated.
Bob gave blood for the first time in 1953, while serving in the Marine Corps. At the time, he says they gave servicemen a day off if they gave blood, which motivated him to donate. After serving in the Marines, Bob attended Purdue using GI Bill benefits. He became a pharmacist and later returned to Evansville, where he opened a Duncan’s Pharmacy. Often, he would stop by a Red Cross location that was open late after work to donate blood.
In 1996, Bob says a phlebotomist named Norah asked if he knew about platelet donations. She explained how platelets are tiny cells in your blood that form clots and help stop bleeding. For many people, they’re essential for fighting cancer, chronic diseases, and traumatic injuries. Platelets must be transfused within five days of a donation, so there’s always a need for donors.
“So, I started donating platelets and I have ever since,” said Bob.
Donors can give platelets every seven days, up to 24 times a year. Bob is a frequent donor, and says when he was younger, he often reached the maximum 24 platelet donations in a year. He says knowing his donations could help adults and young children fighting cancer inspires him and continues to be a driver behind his donations.
“I hope it goes to somebody who deserves the platelets,” said Bob. “It’s a great experience, wonderful people here.”
In the 71 years since Bob’s first blood donation, a lot has changed in his life. He married his wife Norma, and they’ll celebrate 70 years together in October. He retired from his career as a pharmacist, and his six children have grown up, adding six grandchildren and one great-grandchild to the family. Still, helping others through donations remains a constant for Bob. He encourages people to give blood and says Red Cross phlebotomists and staff make donating a great experience.
“Try it. It’s wonderful,” said Bob. “Great time, great people. You meet wonderful people here and you’re helping somebody who needs the blood.”
Even at 90-years-old, Bob plans to continue donating.
You can make an impact on the lives of patients and their families. Find drives near you and make an appointment by visiting RedCrossBlood.org. There is no upper age limit for blood or platelet donors. In most states, individuals who are 17, weight at least 110 pounds, and are in good health may be eligible to donate blood and platelets.
Written by Janie Bohlmann, regional communications manager.