Blood transfusions can be a lifesaving gift for patients and their families. Dan Stevens remembers the impact of blood donations for his older brother, Frank, as a child.
“Frank was born in 1944 and needed frequent blood transfusions because of a kidney issue,” said Dan.
At the time, he recalls it was common to see front-page newspaper pleas for blood donors.
“One of the photos I remember was a front-page picture of a person with a needle and the headline, “Stevens Boy Needs Blood,” said Dan.
Thankfully, his brother received vital care and lifesaving transfusions. Dan says his brother used a wheelchair until he was seven, but went on to set records as a runner in high school. At 17, Dan was inspired to make his first blood donation.
Photo provided by Dan Stevens.
“I have been in pay-back mode for the last 55 years,” said Dan.
In honor of his brother, Dan says he donates as often as he can. Blood can be safely donated every 56 days, up to six times a year.
“I am a type O negative, universal donor,” said Dan.
Type O negative blood can be transfused to anyone who needs blood, so it’s the blood type doctors turn to first and is often used in cases of trauma, emergency and surgery. Dan says he has donated blood hundreds of times throughout his life and encourages people to consider making an appointment to help patients in need.
“It is not so difficult to do, and the contribution to society is significant,” said Dan. “You spend an hour or so donating, get snacks and juice and go home knowing someone, somewhere will see the sun rise tomorrow because of your kindness.”
To make an appointment to donate blood, visit RedCrossBlood.org.
Written by Janie Bohlmann, regional communications manager.