When you donate blood, you don’t get the chance to know where it actually ends up. Generally speaking, donors aren’t doing it for the glory…the reward is the warm, fuzzy feeling that comes from knowing you helped save a life.

Still, it would be nice to know, wouldn’t it? Well, if you gave blood in the last two weeks, here’s where your donation might have gone…

On the overnight shift last Tuesday, Pacific NW Regional Blood Services received an urgent request. A new mom in a local hospital’s maternity department had complications after giving birth. Mom needed 20 units of Type O- red blood cells plus several units of platelets. The blood and platelets were sent to the hospital and the next morning, Blood Services learned that mom is now doing well.

The bottom line is that a baby gets to have a healthy mom because the American Red Cross connected with people who were willing to donate, even in the summertime (our most challenging months). Blood Services then collected, tested, manufactured and managed that gift of blood so that it was available for this new family.

Like many others, I’m proud of the work we do to save and rebuild lives. This is just one story — every day there are dozens more that are just as dramatic throughout the region. If you want to be inspired by other blood recipients, there are some great videos right here.

Photo courtesy of mahalie