To the editor:

Regarding the commentary by David J. Solimine, Sr., in a recently published article in the Lynn Item,

“The American Red Cross and I want your blood.”

According to the U.S. Blood Donation Statistics and Public Messaging Guide, every 2 seconds, someone uses blood.

Statistics also mentioned that the eligible U.S. Population is relatively low, which is why it is very important to consider donating blood.

My blood journey started while in the U.S. Navy. We were bused from the U.S. Naval base in Little Creek, VA, to Portsmouth, VA, for the donation.

After many years of not thinking about donating, after being laid off from my job in 2010, I must have had an epiphany when I was walking out of the career center in downtown Salem. I saw a large sign outside that read, “Please donate Blood today.”

I entered the building, taking the elevator up to the Masonic Hall, and that is when I started my blood journey.

In a few weeks, I will reach 102 units, heading for the 13th gallon mark.

There were a few times I did donate platelets, and Power Red donation which collects only red cells, and not platelets or plasma. This is done using a process called apheresis, or an automated machine.

While donating whole blood every 58 days, or red cells every 112 days.

In closing, I urge everyone who is eligible to please consider donating to help save a life.

Sincerely,

L. Robert Nadeau 
Lynn