American Red Cross: Donors Are Needed To Help Patients Counting On Lifesaving Blood

 Shelly Sherfey, of Harrisburg, began donating blood in her 20s. She was in charge of setting up the room for a blood drive that was scheduled at her place of employment. She decided to donate blood while she was there, and ever since, she has done so on a regular basis.

Sherfey stated, "It's the easiest thing in the world." There is no hurt. Everybody is so kind and affable and makes sense of everything. It's a great way to give without spending a penny."

Sherfey and her husband gave blood together for a long time. During his health history interview at one appointment, the Red Cross phlebotomist noticed something unusual. Do you know that your heart beats irregularly? She inquired. He had never been told that before that. He got in touch with his doctor, who told him to go to the emergency room right away to get checked out. He was given the diagnosis of atrial fibrillation, or Afib, a condition of the heart that can lead to stroke, heart failure, and other problems.

Sherfey said that her husband was aware of his condition sooner than he might have been had he not gone to regular blood donation appointments. As soon as she is eligible to make another donation, she continues to attend her appointments.

Patients who rely on blood for life need more donors right now. Visit RedCrossBlood.org right now to schedule an appointment.