I celebrate it every year in honor of blood and platelet donors – modern day superheroes – who volunteer to roll up a sleeve and provide a lifesaving gift for patients they don’t even know. Sixteen years ago, these superheroes were there for me after a major car accident. In a matter of seconds, my life completely changed. I had severe internal injuries, needed over 41 surgeries (including three in a 24 hour period), and received approximately 100 units of blood. I will always be grateful to the amazing doctors and American Red Cross blood donors who made my recovery possible. Since the accident, I’ve worked with the Red Cross to raise awareness about the ongoing need for blood and platelet donations. Patients depend on these donations every day. It’s so important to keep a sufficient supply on the shelves, especially during times like summer, when many regular donors are on vacation.

Read more at redcrosschat.org