September 11, 2001 is a historical day for Americans across the nation. On September 11, 2015, personal stories—from Denver, Colorado all the way to America’s East Cost—told by survivors, family members of lost a loved ones and close friends were given in response to the question, “Where were you and what were you doing when you heard about the attacks?” Their answers, along with many others, created a sense of togetherness on that important day.
In order to keep all of American in remembrance, the American Red Cross took action, and in 2002 began a blood drive, with students who completed phlebotomy classes, to help Americans commemorate the anniversaries of this historical day. Growing in popularity, both inside and outside of Denver, “the American Red Cross hopes to inspire a tradition of service on 9/11 every year,” relayed Wayne Allen of the Portsmouth Daily Times.
This year will have more people engaging in this tradition than ever before. The main events include the “Drive of Remembrance” at Fenway Park, Boston MA; “Laps for Life” at Charlotte Motor Speedway in Concord, North Carolina; Blood Drive at Darlington Raceway in Darlington, South Carolina; “Laps for Life” at Talladega Superspeedway in Lincoln, Alabama; and “Pocono Raceway’s 9th Annual American Red Cross Blood Drive” in Long Pond, Pennsylvania.
Hopefully, the aforementioned main events will reach cities like Denver, San Diego, Seattle and Salt Lake City. If this patriots production continues to expand in future years, even more individuals who have completed required phlebotomy classes will be needed. If you do not live close to any one of the aforesaid cities, Red Cross always encourages everyone to donate locally. Some cities even have phlebotomy classes to make participation even easier.
This year, there are many patients in need of blood all around the nation. The blood types desperately needed are AB, O negative, A negative and B negative. Platelet donations are also in high demand.
Local phlebotomists who have completed phlebotomy classes from different qualified locations such as Denver will have an even more positive experience if friends and family tag along.
Through blood donation, visitors to the Red Cross on this day honor those who tragically lost their lives 14 years ago. Even if you’re unable to donate blood, do your part in helping others come together to get involved in the Red Cross’ nationwide blood drive. While somewhat of a small effort, when done properly, America can become even more united than it already is.
Cassie Goff is a health writer reporter for Fusion 360, an SEO and content marketing agency. Information provided by Phlebotomy Training Specialists.