By Laura Drinan
Hometown Weekly Reporter
While it may be uncomfortable or time consuming, donating blood is indisputably a selfless act that can save lives. Though not every person is eligible to donate, those who are make it a point to donate whenever they possibly can. The Red Cross made making a difference convenient for local residents in the Walpole Public Library’s Community Room on August 24.
As the radio played softly in the background, the Red Cross finished setting up and donors came for their appointments. The phlebotomists, valuing the donors’ privacy, took them to confidential booths to perform a mini physical before taking the donation. Kevin, a Roslindale native who has volunteered with the Red Cross over the last seven years, offered donors snacks and beverages before their donations and sat with donors after they gave blood until they felt well enough to continue with their day.
The first two donors on August 24’s blood drive make a difference with their donation.
Several of the donors mentioned they donate around four times a year, and one Walpole resident has been donating blood multiple times a year for about 30 years. Even though many of the repeat donors know exactly what giving blood entails and what to expect, the phlebotomists ensured that each donor read a packet of information to refresh their memories and be informed of any new information.
A Walpole resident and repeat donor gives blood at the library blood drive.
Some donors came to the blood drive alone, while others came with the support of a friend as a steady stream - mostly individuals from Walpole and the surrounding areas - visited the library. Donors discovered the blood drive would be held at the library from calls and emails they had received from the Red Cross, but others found out from the Red Cross’s website. Although many of the appointment slots were filled, those who discovered the blood drive at the last minute were still welcome to drop by for a walk-in donation. The library’s blood drive made helping others even easier for Walpole donors because of the convenience and professionalism of the Red Cross staff.
The Red Cross presented the statistic that someone in the United States needs blood every two seconds. On August 24, Walpole and its surrounding communities did their part in helping their fellow citizens.
