Blood donors saving lives one donation at a time

While blood donors giving a unit of blood may seem like a small gesture, that one unit of blood could mean the difference between life and death for some.

VA staff and Veterans at Eastern Oklahoma VA are joining thousands across the nation in rolling up their sleeves to save a life during National Volunteer Blood Donor Month. One service at this VA works to encourage blood donations year-round with the help of a long-time community partner.

The Center for Development and Civic Engagement (CDCE) works closely with the Oklahoma Blood Institute (OBI) to host monthly blood drives. Their goal is to make donating as convenient as possible for staff and Veterans.

“Veterans of war are some of our most dedicated donors because they know the importance of giving blood regularly,” said Dr. John Armitage, Our Blood Institute CEO. “We deeply value these heroes who served our country and who continue to serve by stepping up to give blood. OBI is the blood supplier to all local VA hospitals so these drives benefit both OBI and Veterans. Providing blood to our Veterans is not only our duty but we are proud to make it a critical part of our life saving mission.”

Tana Wilson (left) and Jessica Arnold with T-shirts given to donors during one of the many blood drives.

Amy Hopkins, inpatient case manager at Jack C. Montgomery VA, is a regular blood donor who has a personal connection to donating.

She is pictured above donating blood with the help of Victoria Lozano, Oklahoma Blood Institute tech.

“I’ve been giving blood or plasma regularly since I was old enough to donate and have only increased since I became a nurse,” Hopkins said. “I have family members with chronic illness who have been regular recipients of donated blood. I’ve also seen firsthand the impact blood donation can make through the eyes of patients I have cared for. Whether it’s chronic illness or emergency situations, blood transfusions are vital to their health and wellbeing. In many instances blood transfusion is the difference between life and death. In 2022, a total of 386 units of blood were collected during monthly drives and we hope to encourage even more donations in 2023.”

“Reach out. I’ll come with you.”

Hopkins is already planning to give whenever she is able and encourages others to do the same.

“It’s easy and, except for a small stick to check your iron and place the catheter, painless,” said Hopkins. “We can help someone tremendously by giving blood which, in healthy donors, will regenerate fully in just a few weeks. We are helping to save lives with our donations and each one can help up to three recipients!”

For Hopkins, the last real question is, “Why aren’t you already donating? If you’re nervous or skeptical, reach out to me and I’ll come with you.”