The Kimball Bloodmobile had not reached its goal in more than two years. The last time we collected this amount of blood was back in February 1998. Typically, our goal has been scaled back from 120 to 105 units, but what a fulfilling and rich experience this bloodmobile has been. The total amount of blood collected was 138 units, of which 14 were “double red” units. When a person gives double reds it counts as two donations, and the donor cannot give for 112 days compared to the normal 56-day rule. Despite some changes and the increased amount of time it takes to donate, our donors were patient and giving. Kimball can be proud of its true spirit of humanitarianism. The head nurse for the bloodmobile was very pleased. She stated few blood drives are meeting goals and the supply of blood is very low. Again, thanks to our loyal donors and the 10 new donors who helped us out. The following people earned gallon pins: Bob Rossman and Ken Konz each earned a one-gallon pin. Vicki Woods, Mary Mathies, Gene Rice, Ron Kuechle and Pat Atman earned two-gallon pins. Laurie Hunt earned her three-gallon pin. John Betts, Cindy Stelten and Len Voigt earned their four-gallon pins. Edward Hesse earned his six-gallon pin. Roxanne Dick earned her seven-gallon pin. As always, to make our blood drive successful we needed the many hands of great volunteers. Thanks to our dedicated phone recruiters, the set-up and take-down teams, the volunteer greeters and canteen helpers. Thanks to the Tri-County News for coverage, to the Schmitz families for use of the Playland Ballroom, to the Rod and Gun Club and to the Kimball Lions for their financial support. Thanks to the great group of ladies with the Kimball Legion Auxiliary who make and serve the best lunches for the staff and volunteers. All of your efforts make a difference! Our next blood drive has not been scheduled and will probably not take place until April or May 2004. We hope to see you then and remember, you can donate every 56 days. Donating blood is truly the gift of life.
