I’m 72 years old but I still have my American Red Cross card that qualifies me as a Beginner In Swimming. It’s dated August 19th, 1972. I was 8 years old. I’ve been connected to the Red Cross ever since. Along with earning every other swimming card, I also worked as a Water Safety Instructure and Lifeguard for 8 years (1967-1975). In 1970, my Senior year in High School, I organized a Red Cross Blood Drive in honor of a little girl who was born with a hole in her heart.
After college, I maintained my certifications and even worked for the Red Cross for a few years in Portland, Oregon. When I became a Middle school Health teacher, I Incorporated the Red Cross classes, including the Babysitting program, into my Curriculum. I also made sure every teacher and administrator in the school was Red Cross certified. After 14 years of teaching Middle school, I became the Chair of the Health Department at a local High school and continued teaching the Red Cross Curriculum for another 14 years. I even spent a summer in Tamal Nadu, India, teaching First Aid skills in an all-boys school comprised of boys who once lived on the city streets of Maduri.
But my connection with the Red Cross goes deeper than just being an Instructor. Although somewhat sporadic, I’ve been a blood donor throughout my life. In my mid 50’s, I started donating Platelets. Upon retiring, I started donating on a regular basis. Over the last several years, I’ve averaged 5-6 donations a year. As you can imagine, my Red Cross Tee Shirt collection is out of control!
At least it used to be. Like many donors, I get cold while donating Platelets. But my shivering days are over thanks to the kindness of my wife and a good friend (an expert-rated quilter). For my 72nd birthday, they gathered up my tee shirts, had me select 24 of my favorites, and then turned those t-shirts into the coolest 6-foot by 4-foot quilt I have ever seen (see pictures).
Using their skills, these two wonder workers brought together Sasquatch, Snoopy, King Kong and Godzilla, my favorite Christmas shirts and shirts that offer Hope and Encouragement to all. My wife and friend have given me a warmth that comes not just from this amazing quilt but from two hearts full of Kindness. I love it!
Mike is an inspirational donor and we hope he inspires you to start your own collection of blood donor shirts by coming in to donate regularly. Sign up for your first blood donation at redcrossblood.org.
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