By Sarah Martin
American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Communications Manager

Debbie Stoker’s vibrant red quilt, adorned with Red Cross phrases and logos, is more than just a cozy companion during her donation sessions; it's a testament to her dedication and the countless hours she's spent giving back. Debbie recently gave her 556th platelet donation, totaling over 69 gallons over more than two decades.

Her journey began when her son-in-law was diagnosed with cancer and required platelet transfusions. Witnessing the life-restoring impact of these transfusions, Debbie and her family started donating as frequently as possible. “We could see when he would get a transfusion, the life would come back into him.”

Now retired and living in Sandy, Debbie donates almost weekly. Platelets can be donated every seven days, up to 24 times per year.

“I absolutely love it! Donating has become a cherished part of my life,” said Debbie, who added that she doesn’t mind that donating platelets could take up to three hours. “It's a small price for such a rewarding impact. Blood donations have the power to save lives and knowing that makes every minute worthwhile. It’s woven into the fabric of my life now.”

Debbie has found a creative use for all the Red Cross T-shirts she has received while donating platelets over the years. She began crafting quilts from her collection of Red Cross t-shirts, and they quickly gained popularity. To date, she has made 15 quilts for fellow long-time donors and has many more requests. “Platelet donors know, it’s a relaxing couple of hours but it can get quite cold! These blankets are so fun to make, they keep me cozy while donating, and they’re just a great way to display the fun t-shirts I’ve collected over the years,” Debbie said.

Understanding Platelets
Platelets are tiny cells in your blood that form clots and stop bleeding. For millions of Americans, they are crucial for surviving and fighting cancer, chronic diseases, and traumatic injuries. Every 15 seconds, someone needs platelets.

Platelets can be donated every seven days, up to 24 times a year. This frequent donation is possible because donors receive most of their blood back. During the process, a machine extracts whole blood from one arm, separates out the platelets, and returns the donor’s whole blood and plasma through the other arm. A single platelet donation often creates multiple transfusable units.

Schedule your blood donation today
Debbie Stoker’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact and importance of donation. Her unwavering commitment not only saves lives but also inspires others to join this lifesaving mission.

“Debbie's unwavering commitment to blood donation over the years has been nothing short of inspiring,” said Heidi Ruster, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region. “Her contributions demonstrate the profound impact a single individual can make. Now, more than ever, we urge others to follow her lead, as the demand for donors continues to rise.”

Donors can easily book an appointment through the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

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.