Tim Strom has seen a lot of things change in his lifetime, but his commitment to being a blood donor is one thing that has remained constant. Over the last 52 years, Tim has donated more than 30 gallons of blood, one unit at a time. Although Tim believes this milestone is a great accomplishment, he will be the first to tell you, helping others is what is most important.
Each day, the Red Cross must collect more than 12,000 blood donations for patients at about 2,500 hospitals nationwide. Blood can’t be manufactured and can only be made available through the kindness of volunteer donors. People like Tim, who donate on a regular basis, help ensure blood products are available when they are needed most.
During his more than 50 years as a blood donor, Tim has been able to help those who rely on lifesaving blood transfusions, including members of his own family. When his grandmother had surgery for a hip replacement, Tim and other members of his family rolled up a sleeve to donate blood and ensure she had the units of blood available for her surgery.
He has also witnessed how the blood donation experience has evolved. Tim recalls volunteers bringing home-cooked meals, which have now been replaced with individually wrapped snacks.
To Tim, donating blood may seem like a small gesture to some, but to others, it can be a lifesaving gift that provides what is needed to maintain good health and promote healing. When asked why he donates, Tim said, “…Giving blood is something I can do.”
Written by Communications Volunteer Wendy Melton.