To commemorate Black History Month, we are celebrating Red Crossers and how they’re making a difference in the mission.
As an experienced American Red Cross phlebotomist, Teresa Reid regularly sees first-hand the importance of keeping the blood supply strong. She is also a blood donor herself.
Reid will celebrate 22 years at the Red Cross under her belt in early March. She has heard many stories from donors, including family members come out to support their loved ones who needed blood. Reid said she recently met a woman in her 50s or 60s who was a first-time blood donor. The donor said she donated because her mom is battling cancer and giving blood was something she could do to help.
A phlebotomist is a caregiver for the donor during their blood donation, beginning with reviewing the donor’s medical history to ensure their eligibility to give blood. Then the phlebotomist performs the actual blood collection process, which takes about 8-10 minutes. Afterward, donors receive a simple yet heartfelt message of gratitude from their phlebotomist.
“It’s very rewarding work,” Reid said. “I’m always inspired by my donors and why people come out and give blood. A lot of the time I hear, ‘I don’t have a lot of money, so this is what I can do.’”
The need for blood hit close to home recently when her husband, Eric, needed blood due to a medical emergency. Her husband works for the Red Cross and has been a regular blood donor. Reid was grateful the blood was available when he needed it.
“It’s a blessing that my husband is here,” Reid said. “Think about the person in need, and how thankful some person will be to receive your blood. You never know when you or a family member will need it. It’s just a few minutes for you, but you can possibly save lives.”
Reid knows some people do not want to be around blood, but the Red Cross does more than just gather blood donations.
“If you can’t give blood, you can still be highly impactful,” Reid said.
That said, Reid said the need for blood is constant. For people who are not eligible to give blood, they can still help. She pointed out that people can volunteer as a blood ambassador, a transportation specialist, among other opportunities.
This Black History Month and throughout the year, Reid encourages people in the Black community to give blood because it is crucial for so many patients.
“We have to educate the community about options, and about why our blood is important,” Reid said.
Reid said that she explains to Black community members about the importance of their blood for sickle cell disease patients. Sickle cell disease is the most common genetic blood disorder in the U.S. One in every three Black blood donors are a match for people with the condition.
“I spread the word, but the education needs to start at home,” Reid said. “I keep it simple and just say – we need you.”
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