Blood donations are truly the gifts that keep on giving. Your generosity can make an extraordinary difference to so many children and adults. That's why ABC11 Together and the American Red Cross are teamed up for its 5th blood drive.
ABC11 would like to thank all those who came out on Wednesday, January 8 to donate.
Donors turn out in Fayetteville
Jill Leggiero says she sees the need up close and personal almost every day as a medical student.
"Being in the hospital constantly, it's a typical story. You see a lot of people need a lot of blood."
That's why Leggiero says that for her, donating blood is a no-brainer, and she's been doing it for years. She says at times, she can feel the relief and gratitude from patients and their families when they learn they've received a blood donation at the hospital.
"They're usually pretty grateful. They're saying, 'thank you so much for doing the most,' because you know, they know that's the most we can do for them.' It's really great that they're understanding."
"In the long run, it's worth it," says donor Douglas Carlile. "I have type O negative and I know a lot of people out there could use it."
Organizers from the Red Cross says Daniel Saucedo is a donor who came from Roseboro, meaning he can give two units of red blood cells which could help multiple patients.
"I hope it helps them, Saucedo says. "I mean, it's something that we all have in us and we're all going to need at one time or another."
Durham donors at Streets at Southpoint
ABC11 Together 2025 Blood Drive Durham turnout
Recent eligibility changes mean more people can now contribute. Adjustments related to gender, sexual orientation, and European travel have expanded opportunities for individuals to make a life-saving impact. If you have questions about your eligibility status, click here for more information.