From inspired beginnings to a decade of dedication, Sam Cortez’s role as a blood collector with the Red Cross showcases her passion and impact. We celebrate Sam and her vital work this Blood Collectors Week. Photos by Matt Beard/American Red Cross
By Mimi Teller/American Red Cross
From a young age, Sam Cortez was determined to follow in her mother’s footsteps, inspired by her mother’s work as a hospital nursing assistant and her deep compassion. Now, after nearly eleven years as a blood collector with the American Red Cross Los Angeles Region, Sam's commitment has only grown stronger. Every time she introduces herself, Sam takes pride in sharing and describing her job — she usually receives reactions filled with genuine interest and admiration.
As we celebrate Blood Collectors Week from September 1–7, we honor Sam and the dedicated efforts of professionals like her. While the work of blood collectors often happens behind the scenes, it is profoundly essential and impactful for people whose lives depend on the expertise and care of these professionals.
In the early years of her role, Sam operated advanced machines to separate and collect various blood components. Three years ago, Sam took on additional responsibilities, becoming an instructor and Apheresis Charge. In this role, she oversees blood drives, leads the collections team and trains new blood collection hires, guiding them through blood draw procedures and preparing them for real-life scenarios. Her role provides Sam with a profound sense of purpose, knowing that she ensures quality blood donations.
Sam's work, inspired by personal loss, ensures 'good units' of blood make a difference in the lives of patience in need.
“I love knowing that I help people and am part of a team dedicated to saving lives,” Sam shared. “I might not be the one administering blood directly to a patient in the hospital, but I make a difference by collecting a ‘good unit’ that hospitals can use.”
The term “good unit” holds special meaning for Sam. Before losing her mother to sepsis, a severe and often life-threatening condition that arises when the body’s response to an infection becomes dysregulated, Sam’s mother required platelet donations and blood transfusions. Although Sam couldn’t change her mother’s fate, she found comfort in knowing her work was making a difference for others in need of lifesaving blood products to live another day.
Passionate about encouraging blood donations, Sam reassures potential donors that the impact far outweighs the temporary discomfort of a needle. “Don’t be afraid of a momentary needle prick,” Sam urges. “Your blood donation allows people to live and be with their families, to continue on for one more day.”
Sam made sure to extend a heartfelt “congratulations” and message to her fellow blood collectors, “We all play a vital role. Keep collecting!”
Schedule your blood donation today with a caring professional like Sam at redcrossblood.org or call (800) RED-CROSS or (800) 733-2767.
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 follow us on social media.
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