Red Cross: Blood Transfusions Saved Eagan Man's Life

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Editor's Note: The following is a press release from the American Red Cross.

Something meaningful like a blood donation is a gift that doesn’t cost a thing but can give joy and hope to a hospital patient in need.

Heather Aagesen-Huebner of Eagan knows firsthand the importance of giving blood. Her husband, Jon, was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia and required several hospitalizations and many blood transfusions to live.

“I know how crucially important it is to have blood available when a loved one needs it because it helped save my husband’s life,” said Aagesen-Huebner. “I’m so grateful to the people who donated blood so that it was available for Jon when he needed it.”

“Because of the generosity of blood donors, my twin three-year-old daughters have a father and we are able to celebrate the holidays together,” said Aagesen-Huebner. “You just don’t realize that you or a loved one might be the one in need of blood someday. We encourage our family, friends and all eligible donors to take the time to pay it forward because Jon is living proof that blood saves lives.”

Aagesen-Huebner’s story highlights just how important each and every blood donation can be. Discover the true meaning of giving this holiday season by donating blood. All blood types are needed to ensure an adequate blood supply.

“Without the generosity of volunteer blood donors, we would not be able to ensure a stable blood supply for patients in need,” said Geoff Kaufmann, CEO of the Red Cross North Central Blood Services Region. “A single blood donation can help save up to three lives and give patients another opportunity to celebrate holidays with their loved ones.”

During the 2012 holiday season, the American Red Cross asks everyone to support its mission by giving something meaningful—giving hope to those in need. Dakota County residents will have the opportunity to give the gift of life at a special holiday blood drive on Dec. 17 at Unisys, which is sponsored by the Dakota County Regional Chamber of Commerce, the Eagan Rotary and Eagan Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Every day, regardless of the date on the calendar, the Red Cross must collect approximately 17,000 pints of blood for patients. The need for blood remains constant during the holiday season, but busier schedules, holiday travel and other seasonal activities can leave little time to donate blood. Help the Red Cross maintain a stable blood supply this holiday by making an appointment to donate.

Eagan Community Holiday Blood Drive
WHEN: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 17
WHERE: Unisys, 3199 Pilot Knob Rd., Eagan, Minn.
DETAILS: All presenting donors must show a government issued ID because Unisys is a secured facility. All presenting donors will receive a coupon for a free pint of Culver's frozen custard.


How to Donate Blood
Simply call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license, or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental permission in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.