Thank you. Mark Jacildo (pictured here), for honoring your pledge! And it gives me an opportunity to tell you about that crazy contraption next to him, and what’s with all the extra tubing.

Mark did what is called a “power red” donation. These are reserved for O, A-, and B- blood types. When you give this way, you have to wait twice as long before giving again (every 112 days as opposed to 56). If you want to give all the time, but get fewer phone calls reminding you to donate, this is a nice way to go. Here’s how it works:

Power Red is similar to a whole blood donation, except a special machine is used to allow you to safely donate two units of red blood cells during one donation while returning your plasma and platelets to you. It takes a bit longer than a regular donation. Basically, they draw a pint, run it through a centrifuge for what they need, and then pump the rest back with some saline. They do this twice. When the saline comes back in, don’t be creeped out by how COLD it is. It’s a strange sensation.

This is definitely the way to go if you want to maximize your donations, and what I do every time. Thanks again, Mark!

Dear Givers,

We’re in the final weeks of our Sleeves Up Campaign! Thank you so much for those who have donated blood or pledged. We have over 25 pledges—amazing, but we can do more. While a vaccine for COVID-19 is imminent, the dire need for blood will be ongoing for several more months. Even under normal circumstances, the need is critical. Giving is a terrific habit, and it saves lives.

Remind your friends and colleagues to pledge. We have an opportunity to make an impact even larger than last year!

Captioned: Sarah Taylor, 20 Nov

I want to thank all of you who have pledged so far. I know they say every year is critical, but I think 2020 has refined that definition. Please email or Teams me successes (and attempts) like the one above. Thank you, Brendan Quinn, for honoring your pledge and making a difference!

Many of you will also learn why it’s so important that we get as many pledges as possible. I know at least one of you has already been turned away, which happens often every drive. Maybe on that particular day your iron was too low, or your blood pressure was too high. Maybe you lived in a disqualifying country. Giving blood is harder for some people, which makes it all the more important for the rest of us.

During the week I never get any sign ups. People forget. People are busy. I get it. But when I announce it at the MMM, I always get 3-5 signups within the hour. I mention this because you can really help me remind people. Bug them in Teams. Mention it at the end of a meeting. Just plant that seed when they don’t usually hear it.

The Red Cross has an added bonus going on now that runs through 12/15. See the link below for what you’re eligible for if you schedule your appointment between now and then!

https://www.redcrossblood.org/local-homepage/events/your-chance-to-win-an-outdoor-living-experience-.html

Many thanks again to all of you for making a difference!