Bob Wright (left) with donor Judd Austin, Chief Banking Officer at Altabank, during a blood drive held in Pleasant Grove, UT, hosted by Altabank.
By Cass Bonfiglio
American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region Volunteer
Bob Wright's journey into the world of blood donation began unexpectedly, with a simple offer of an afternoon off in exchange for participating in a blood drive. A 22-year-old Air Force recruit at the time, Bob's decision to give blood that day was the start of a remarkable story of generosity and impact.
Over the years, Bob's dedication to giving blood has been unwavering. From his initial donation in 1982 to today, he has been a regular donor, averaging about four donations per year for the past four decades. This consistent commitment has brought him to the impressive milestone of nearly reaching the 20-gallon mark – a testament to his enduring support for those in need.
“Looking back, that one small decision to donate blood years ago not only gave me an afternoon off but also set my life on a course of giving back in ways I could have never imagined,” he said.
The O Negative Spark
Following a move to Las Vegas, Bob continued to donate. It was then he learned he has O negative blood with CMV negative factor, a rare combination.
O negative blood that is also CMV negative is considered the safest blood for transfusions for immune deficient newborns and people with weakened immune systems. Donors with this rare blood are know as “Heroes for Babies” at the Red Cross because of the lifeline it provides to babies in need.
O negative blood holds a critical role in the realm of blood donation due to its universal compatibility with any blood type, making it the “universal donor” type. This unique characteristic allows O negative blood to be transfused into patients of any blood type in emergency situations when there is no time to determine the recipient's blood type.
“Learning about the uniqueness of my blood strengthened my resolve to give back to the community through blood donation, deepening my commitment to supporting those in need,” Bob said.
When Bob’s father was diagnosed with cancer, he saw firsthand how vital blood is in the treatment of cancer and other diseases. For cancer patients, like those undergoing chemotherapy treatments, blood transfusions play a crucial role in alleviating symptoms and enhancing their quality of life during their battle against the disease. Cancer patients use nearly a quarter of the blood supply – more than patients fighting any other disease.
Getting other involved
Not content with being just a donor, Bob also took on the role of organizing blood drives for Altabank, his employer of 14 years in Utah. “The blood drives are just one of the ways our bank is making a difference in the community,” Bob shared. “At Altabank, we believe in encouraging our employees to give back and get involved in the communities we serve.”
Recently Bob organized four very successful Red Cross blood drives resulting in 152 donations with a remarkable 26% of first-time donors. His dedication to this cause has not only inspired others but has also created a lasting impact on the lives of many.
“We're looking to make this a yearly event, coordinating blood drives on the same day at four different spots across Utah, from northern to southern Utah,” Bob shared. Working closely with the Red Cross, Bob and Altabank will promote the drives encouraging employees and community members to give. “If we keep this up annually, we can see those numbers grow. We're thankful for teaming up with the Red Cross on these blood drives.”
Bob's Reflections on Blood Donation
Bob shared his belief that blood donation represents a selfless act. “I think it’s a good opportunity to put other people before ourselves. It’s a great way to give back, and I’m fortunate in that I’m healthy and strong. This is an unselfish giving of oneself,” he said.
Encouraging others to participate, Bob highlighted the importance of courage, emphasizing that by realizing the impact one can make by donating blood, individuals have the power to effect meaningful change in someone else's life.
Bob revealed that he came close to stopping his blood donation on two or three occasions. However, details from the Red Cross regarding how the blood was used to save lives spurred him to continue. “Knowing that my blood was helping emergency room patients was incredibly motivating. Understanding its purpose made me realize its significance. Consider this – my wife gave birth to five children. What if they had required blood? Even my father, as a cancer patient, depended on blood donations.”
Whatever your reason to donate blood may be, there’s always a need. Donors can schedule appointments using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting redcrossblood.org or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
Host a blood drive
The Red Cross of Utah invites businesses, churches, schools and community groups to host blood drives. Teaming up with the Red Cross to organize and host a blood drive provides an opportunity to give back to your community. The Red Cross offers planning assistance and recruitment tools to help ensure your drive attracts donors. On the day of the drive, the Red Cross supplies equipment, materials and trained staff. Learn more at redcrossblood.org/host-a-drive.
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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