A week before the blood drive Red Cross called to tell me we may need to cancel. The majority of our donors’ schedules changed and we needed to rustle up 2 dozen people in order to run our blood drive.

8 hours driving my truck and horse trailer from NY to VA was enough time to stare down my insecurities and muster the courage to call upon everyone. It was 7 years since I gave blood and the needle scared me, but I knew that those bags literally saved our daughter. I was also scared of inconveniencing others – of putting them in a position to either join me in my discomfort and fear or to say no to something that I’m clearly passionate about.

The Richmond Association of Realtors gave us use of their beautiful building, and Realtors from a dozen different companies showed up to give their vitality for a stranger. Church members, business partners, our MCR Chairman of the Board, and a few regular donors came together in the last 4 days before the drive. Friends, giving back requires us to show up to answer the divine marching orders of the universe. I live by faith – but this required faith in others to bring their best to strangers.

We had 27 donors attend our drive, and 16 first time donors. Many friends who were unable to donate came for support. 24 pints of blood was collected and 42 lives are impacted with this life-saving gift. Red Cross volunteers are good people and cared for us with compassion and skill that eased the process for all of us. Thank you!

Let’s keep showing up – this is how we save lives and live with open hearts.