Red Cross celebrates those who support blood donation during March is Red Cross Month

By: Joan Brasher, Volunteer Writer  

MEMPHIS, Tenn., March 22, 2024 — Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs a blood transfusion. The American Red Cross plays a key role in strengthening the national blood supply, through generous volunteer blood donors like Shaun Brennan.

Brennan has been a Red Cross blood donor for 30-plus years. He has donated blood, platelets or plasma more than 500 times. His dedication to shoring up the blood supply for patients in need has made a positive difference in countless lives, including those with cancer. Brennan, a Connecticut native, said his motivation to donate comes from being a “sickly” child who suffered from childhood asthma. 

“I have not needed a blood transfusion, but I definitely know what it feels like to be a patient,” Brennan said. “I honestly believe I owe it to my parents, my doctors and all the other folks who took care of me to ‘Pay It Forward’ as best I can.”

Not everyone can duplicate Brennan’s heroic efforts, but anyone with an interest in donating blood should consider reaching out to the Red Cross to see if they are eligible, Brennan said. People of all blood types – especially those with type O blood – are critical to ensuring patients in need receive care. 

“This has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life,” Brennan said. “I will keep donating as long as I can, and I will continue to encourage others to donate — and to donate on a regular basis, too.”

How to donate blood 

Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.  

Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.  

Amplify your impact − volunteer!  

Another way to support the lifesaving mission of the Red Cross is to become a volunteer blood donor ambassador at Red Cross blood drives. Blood donor ambassadors help greet, check-in and thank blood donors to ensure they have a positive donation experience.    

For more information and to apply, visit redcross.org/volunteertoday.   

About the American Red Cross: 

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.