Betsy Adams

In February 2003, I underwent triple heart bypass surgery, and received several units of blood. Three weeks later, I felt well enough to attend a blood drive meeting at Sacred Heart Church in West Reading, as our parish nurses were planning to host our first blood drive with Keystone Community Blood Bank. As an active parish nurse, I believe it is important that people realize the vital role the Blood Bank plays in our community. Many people do not realize that the process of donating blood is quick, easy and completely safe. People should not wait for an emergency in order to donate – they need to understand that the need for blood and blood donors exists every day.