It was a cold winter day, with the snow falling softly to the ground, and the sun trying to peek through the winter storm. All this calmness and to top it off being greeted at my office by 6 kind hearted souls, one by one, the American Red Cross Team, were settling in with all their goods in a conference room at building 448
on Friday November 30th, 2007. Teamwork is an incredibly strong point of the American Red Cross. How else could a mobile blood drive run so smoothly? Each person had their role to play and each person clearly loved what they were doing. The comfort they gave to each blood donor was an incredible gesture.
This was my first blood drive, which had been in the making for just a couple short months and turned out to be a great success. One Gift, One Life and a whole lot of Gratitude and One by one each blood donor made their way to the donor room. Some reluctant, some eager, me on the other hand, every time I give blood I get my nerves all worked up to where my head becomes a little cloudy. Yeah, you know that feeling? I know some of you do. Where you feel like you have suddenly taken flight to the nearest floating cloud in the sky?
Beforehand I had made the decision to donate towards the end of the blood drive, that way everybody that signed up could stick to their appointments. It was actually quite funny because some of my donors which were, friends, family, lenders, title and colleagues were quite disturbed by the fact that I hadn’t donated yet. In fact a couple of them said, “I’m not leaving here until I see you hooked up”. Did they actually think I was going to putz out on them? Never! I just didn't want them to see me in flight to that floating cloud in the sky and my main concern was to make sure they each had water and treats and of course a big hug and a thank you.
My goal was to have 30 donors and being just 4 shy of having 30 sign up, it ended up being that 14 total donated. Even if only 1 donated “that was 1 more pint of blood than there was when the American Red Cross came in”. What a wise statement that was by Nancy, who was in charge of the American Red Cross team.
Nobody passed out, nobody became sick, and yes I did donate. On top of it I learned some interesting information that I didn’t know before:
Are you considering holding your own blood drive? Feel free to call me at anytime and I will help you get started in the right direction. The American Red Cross will walk you through the process step by step once you get everything scheduled with your recruiter. Soon you will find yourself feeling completely uplifted by the experience of giving back.
Thank You to all the wonderful people who took the time out of their busy day to support me in my blood drive and above all, for making a difference for another human beings life. You are all such giving souls. Nette, Ounmany, JC, Mike, Nate, Stephanie, Nate K, Joe, Melanie, Curtis,Toby, Carlos, and Nichole.
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Julie Neerings, GRI- Heart of Utah Real Estate/Keller Williams Salt Lake City Copyright © 2008- If you are considering buying, selling, military relocations to Hill AFB or relocating to Utah, you deserve local expertise and advice to be provided by a professional in real estate. Julie Neerings is a Utah REALTOR® providing full time, professional real estate services to buyers and sellers in the cities of Layton, Bountiful, Woods Cross, West Valley, West Jordan, South Jordan, Riverton, Herriman and all surrounding cities.
*Photos Courtesy of PhotoBucket.com
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Julie, how wonderful that you organized and participated in such a successful blood drive. As I've discussed with you before, I'm an active blood donor through our Masonic Lodge Blood Donation program in conjunction with the Red Cross. I've donated approximately every 8 weeks to the tune of 5 times a year for the past 6 years. In addition to donating my blood, I enjoy helping to cook the free breakfast for the rest of the donors. There's no better charity you can give than the gift of life and donating a pint of blood can help save two lives every time. Thanks for your wonderful efforts in support of the gift of life.
Brian: You are welcome and Thank you for being my first to comment. This was such a wonderful experience and I was so honored by all the support that took place. You really are an excellent example Brian and just the fact that you so unselfishly give is to be commended. Now breakfast for the donors? I really like that idea. My blood drive was from 2-7 and the plan was going to be to play a good movie, popcorn and have a good laugh or two. Things changed a bit, but I was OK with that. It gave all of us involved to visit with each other and catch up. Not only that, getting to know the ARC staff was a treasure.
I really do appreciate you sharing all the positive here. All the sharing will encourage others to jump in and do the same.
Good for you Julie! My husband is one of the biggest givers in LV....He goes EVERYTIME the RC calls him...me? well I'm the BIGGEST chicken in the entire world and faint at just the thought of having to give up some of my blood. The doctor's office has to draw blood on me 3-4 times a year and I'm sick for days before just thinking of going through such a small ordeal. KUDOS to all who give their blood!
Julie, I think blood drives are the best! Before I was in real estate I worked in a hospital and we were always donating blood. It makes you feel good to do it...physically and emotionally. I'm just like the Nike's slogan on this...Just do it!
Jullie- you are one brave and giving girl. I am like Mary, my husband gives blood regularly, but I keep passing out. Even for a test, I have to lay down. I love your pictures and music. I have to learn to do this stuff:)
Good Morning Julie, this event was a success! You also reminded me that I am eligible to donate again.I know the feeling your talking about...but after you feel great knowing that you are helping saving lives! I am soo proud of you! :)
Hi Julie,
Happy to hear your blood drive went so well. I did not know the facts you stated---4,000 calories in 1 donating session? Wow, I'm signing up. LOL.
I used to donate pretty regularly but have not in awhile.
Love the video and music, great!
Julie- That is very fortunate that you are able to give blood. I am glad for you how well this blood drive turned out for you and the Red Cross. You are such a giver. I have never been able to give blood as most of my years I have either been pregnant, nursing or had anemia. I remember years ago, I knew people who got paid to give their blood. It was so wierd to me to go and sell your blood! Katerina
Julie - Thanks for the great post and the interesting facts about donating blood.
JULIE: It doesn't surprise me at all to see you spearheading a blood drive. You are truly compassionate and giving in every way. I haven't donated in a while, but I will soon. My father-in-law donates extensively. He even does the plateletts, which takes several hours. Thanks for this reminder of how important it is to give. You did a great job of marketing the concept to the people that want to burn calories by sitting down, and probably unintentionally to the people that are looking for a faster buzz. (LOL) Keep up the great work, Julie.
Julie, What an amazing thing to help put together and "give back." I love the music and pictures on this post as well. I am not allowed to donate because I don't reach the weight requirements but my children do it frequently. Many blessings for all the wonderful work you do!
Hi Julie, I've thought about doing this. Thanks for sharing how you did it and explaining that the Red Cross will help so much. It sounds like something we could all try as a service project for our offices.
Julie, not only is that a good idea, it is a good cause. We all need to remember that there are many ways we can give. I may be contacting you about how to organize one. I think it would be a good way to rally around a good cause.
Julie- Congratulations on another successful blood drive! I have always been to chicken to donate, but I am rethinking this, it is for a wonderful cause!
Julie: Girlie, girlie...do you have any idea how inspiring you are to me (and to so many others?) This is such a great way to give. And...let's face it...EVERYONE has blood. You can't say "I can't give cuz I don't have the money." Unless you have a blood related illness....you can give! I'm proud of YOU!
One more thing I want to say to you, Julie. In this world...there are LOTS of good people. I believe in the goodness of humanity...although there are some idiots 'out there' trying to make all of us humans look bad. You, however, stand out in such a special way. I'm not trying to flatter you. I'm really not. You are just so very, very special. I just want you to know that you do make the world a better place for all the rest of us!! I love ya!
Hi Julie - Congrats on the success of your blood drive - it is truly a worthy cause and many needy people who don't even know the donors will benefit. The human body has a wonderful way of replenishing waht is donated....every 90 days or so...so people should not be afraid to give - you will get it all back from erythropeitin factor from your kidneys stimulating your bone marrow to regenerate new red blood cells!
Our bodies are an awesome miracle:)
Happy Holidays
Grace Safrin
Congrats on the success of your blood drive. Giving blood burns 4,000 calories? No kidding.
That's a beautiful thing you've done! that's leading by example. Letting your light shine so others can learn from the good deeds you do!! Beautiful.
Praise the Lord!
May GBY!
Julie--You are braver than I! Congrats on your blood drive as it is so important this time of year. I didn't know about the 4000 calories burned. Good to know as that's a lot of Christmas cookies this time of year!
Julie, I have been a regular donator at Blood Drives over time. You know, when you donate a lot, you forget how many gallons have come out of you along the way. Thank you for bringing this topic up to all of us!
Healthy blood definitely helps those in need. Maybe mine will make them just a bit more wacky after the infusion.
I had to come back and comment- Love your holiday pic!
Mary: Thank you for your support my friend. That's awesome that your husband gives so much. My blood donations have been sporadic and after talking to the American Red Cross Team, I'm completely committed to donate every 2 months. The funny thing is, they are only 2 blocks from my office. You know what? I completely believe that it's a true fear for many to donate blood. I have a fear of spider's, your's is giving blood. After getting to know your personality here, I'm sure you give in so many other ways.
Linda: That is fabulous that you have donated so much. Have you ever known exactly how much you have donated over your lifetime? There are some people who know that number. I don't, but find it sort of interesting. You know, a couple of the things I truly love about a blood drive, is that it brings so many people together and to see their confidence and uplifted spirit as they leave they finish up their donation, is priceless.
Faina: You my sweet friend are giving me too much credit. I'm sorry that you have passed out from giving blood. That makes for a not so wonderful experience. One thing to always remember, is you without doubt give, in so many other ways. The first time I donated, I pondered on it all day long at work (that's where it was held) and something in my gut was saying, just do it. Finally I made it there and once the donation was complete, I was so excited I actually did it. As I was taking a step forward, down I went. Then I felt like a goof as 3 nurses surrounded me. I had not eaten anything the entire day and on top of it, my nerves got a hold of me. The result? Kissing the ground. I was determined to give another try and since then, I make sure I have nutrition in my stomach. Thank you for being here my friend and always leaving such kind comments.
Suzanne: It was a great success and I soooo look forward to the next blood drive. I truly admire you for making it a strong point to always donate. Because of people like you, I'm inspired to stay on top of it and donate more often. Thank you for being here and sharing your insight on blood donations.
Cynthia: Thank you for your support. Yeah, can you believe that? 4,000 calories. I was in shock. It was funny when one of my donors told me that. Her daughter is a nurse and immediately I clarified that with the ARC Team. One of the donors said "all you would need to do is advertise that and many people would show up". I thought that was hysterical. I'm glad you enjoyed the video and music. It took me a couple of hours just to figure it out, but once I finished this one, I don't think I will ever forget how to do it.
Katerina: You are such a kind hearted soul. Thank you for being so supportive and most of all, being my friend. There are many people that for various reasons are unable to donate and for you and others who have commented here, with the giving spirit you have, you make up for it many, many other ways. It's in your soul to reach out and give to others.
Tom: You are welcome and thank you for stopping by to leave your kind comment. Have a wonderful week.
Adam: You are always so very kind. Thank you! I'm completely guilty of always needing to have so much going at the same time. It's exactly what puts the drive into my day. This was just that extra bit of sweetness to pull all that balance together and lift the heart to feel all the goodness. Kudos to you for donating and that is amazing how much your father-in-law donates. He has got to have some really healthy blood by now with all that regeneration going on. Yeah, I thought that was hysterical when the ARC Team told us that the alcohol absorbs much quicker into your blood the first couple of days after donating. That would make for a cheap buzz for sure. :)
Carole: Thank you so much for leaving such a beautiful comment. This was a very uplifting event to put together. I was so grateful for the opportunity. You know, my recruiter Anne, and the supervisor Nancy, both mentioned something very interesting. Most businesses do not call ARC to set up a blood drive. ARC has to make the calls to area businesses to recruit them to set up a blood drive. That makes it even more encouraging for me to get the next one going. I loved it! The people that were involved and made donations are such angels to me. I appreciate every one of them so much. You may not be able to give blood, but without doubt you give so much to everybody that surrounds you. I'm certain of that. Many blessings to you too my friend.
Julie, is your blog singing to me? How'd you do that?
(If your blog is not singing to me, please send help.)
Elaine: I say go for it! You will be amazed at how truly simple it is to set up. I was so impressed with the simplicity of it, even with a very large work load, this didn't not take a huge amount of my time. Every single second was cherished in preparing for the blood drive. If you need any help at all, call me. Thank you for your kind comment and good luck to you in setting that up.
Stephen: You will have no regrets my friend. Call me at anytime, really and I will help you through it. Honestly, it didn't take up a tremendous amount of time for me to organize this. It really does bring everybody together for such a fabulous cause. Thank you for your kind comment and have a fabulous week.
Alecia: If you can, I would encourage you to try to donate and you will be so truly glad you did. The most important thing is to make sure you drink lots of water the day before and eat a well balanced meal. Don't go in on an empty stomach. That is definitely not a good thing for a great experience. Let me know if you do decide to donate. Heck, call me when you get to the center and I'll comfort you with good conversation so that you can take your mind off it. :) I would really do that for you my friend. Thanks for the comment on the pic. My children were laughing at me as I was doing that. It's all in fun, right? Have a wonderful week my friend.
Elaine: You are so adorable my friend. Yes it is singing to you. :) I promise you are not hearing the Beatles in your head. I created that fun slide show using
Candace Robinson's Tutorial
You should check it out. This was a lot of fun to create.
Neat post, sis.......
I am featuiring it because it is such a good work to do......
People see Gods love when we do things like that!!
Amen!!
\o/
Alexander: Thank you for being here and what a gift that is to have you feature this post. I hope that more people with definitely be inspired to hold their own blood drive or find a local donation center and give soon. GBY
Elizabeth: My dear friend. After I read your comments I become speechless for a moment and tears well up in my eyes. Every time. I don't know what it is, but you reach right into the very depths of my soul and make me so grateful for not having any fear of showing my true self here on AR. I can't be anything different and I thank God daily for giving me a voice. Especially if that voice means that it can some how, in some way be positive to another person. Because of that voice, I can only be grateful to Him and never take for granted the very dear friends and family that I am blessed with. You, my friend are right there. I know your words are not flattery, God hasn't allowed you to be that way. He has only given you a very genuine, loving heart. Thank you so much for touching my life the way you have. May God bless you and hug you each day. When you feel that warm comfort, that will be the hug I asked Him to give to you today. I love you too, my sister, my friend.
Grace:Thank you so much for leaving such a wonderful comment and sharing your knowledge about donating blood. You used to be a nurse so you do have that great knowledge to lend. You are right, "our bodies are a miracle". It just amazes me what can be done to help others. All for free and all from our bodies. Is that really correct on the 4,000 calories being burned with each blood donation? I shouldn't question that at all. It's just amazing to me.
Craig: Thank you for your wonderful comment. Yeah, can you believe that? I was in shock. You know, the ARC said you lose 1 lb from donating. Have a wonderful week!
Armando: What a very kind comment you have made and I sincerely appreciate that. More than anything, the fact that 13 other people gave so much of themselves without a second thought and 6 wonderful people from ARC worked so well as a team, tells me that God made this all happen and it all happened with ease and comfort.
Teri: Thank you for stopping by to comment. You crack me up. That is a great observation though. Heck if you burn 4,000 cals from donating why not give more often, especially if that means guiltless Christmas cookies. :)
Gary: Thank you for your very insightful comment. I really appreciate you sharing your experience. Have you ever checked with your donor center to ask what the numbers are on your donations? That could be an interesting number where you have donated so many times. Oh, you make me laugh. You know, if the recipient of your blood does feel wacky at all, that's just because they are wacky happy with gratitude. Have a fabulous week!
Hi Julie,
Great post, sorry I couldn't be there, I wish I could have. Its great to see all of those familiar faces doing such a great deed! I know you are planning to do another one, although I still won't be able to donate, I will try to be there and hand out juice and cookies!
Penny: My dear friend. You have that darling little one that you need to focus on and gosh do I hope you start feeling better. I did miss you and know that you are always there in thought. I knew you would enjoy seeing all those familiar faces. By the time the next one rolls around your little jelly bean will be in this wonderful world for us all to love. Have a great night and I hope to see you very soon. Big hugs and love you lots!
Julie, It's wonderful of you to organize this and to be there for everyone who gave....the slide show is beautiful. Each of these people is to be so highly commended.....and especially you !!
((-:
Jo
Jo: Good Morning my friend! It's so wonderful to read a comment from you first thing in the morning. What a bit of sunshine that is. Thank you for your wonderful comment. The gratitude I have for each of these people fills the souls, that is for sure. They are all such giving people.
Julie: Maybe we are sisters...separated at birth. :-) I'm gonna call you 'sister' either way...cuz I love you!
Julie,
Thanks for stopping by my blog to comment! This is a wonderful post, especially at this time of year. Thanks for the background music; I love that it continues to play while I'm commenting.
Mike in Tucson
Beautiful thing for you to do...although how could we expect anything less from Julie! BTW....love the new profile pic! You have such a wonderful smile!
Elizabeth: I'm wondering the same! Thank you for being here to comment and making that initial phone call. What a treasure you are and how simple it is to say to you, my sister I love you too!
Mike: I really enjoy reading your blogs, so you are welcome my friend! I appreciate you being here to comment and I'm glad you like that music. The Beatles I love and you know adding it to the blood drive photos, just seemed so appropriate. Especially with the music and the look on some of the donors faces.
Sally: Thank you for your very kind comment and compliment. You are such a sweetheart. It was a beautiful experience indeed.
Congratulations, Julie. What a great service you provided to your community, and you might get some positive vibes to help your business... that would be a well-deserved bonus! You are a real asset to your community, and it sounds like that's a wonderful place to live.
Julie, Great thoughts. It is better to give than to receive.
Margaret: Thank you for stopping by. This was so worth the time and effort. I would love to do this more than 2X per year, but for now that will have to work. I love living here. Actually it's the only place I have lived and because of the beauty that surrounds us, I feel at peace. But, beauty is everywhere! Thank you for such a kind complement.
Kay: Always true, give until your heart aches, then you know you really gave to your full abilities. Thank you for stopping by.