Every day, the American Red Cross depends on the generosity of partners to assist in collecting lifesaving blood donations within our community. Linde, a global industrial gases and engineering company, sets an inspiring example of corporate responsibility by hosting four blood drives per year in their head office in Danbury, CT. Linde encourages employees to participate, emphasizing the critical importance of blood donation. These drives were started 12 years ago by an employee who currently represents Linde on the Connecticut Red Cross Board of Directors. Linde’s unwavering dedication to this cause has resulted in an impressive collection of over 420 blood donations since 2019. Beyond the numbers, it’s the stories of individuals within Linde that truly illuminate the impact and importance of their commitment.
Karen, who has been involved with Linde blood drives since their inception and has served as coordinator since 2021, has been motivated by the belief that if she ever found herself in need, the lifesaving gift of blood would be readily available. Now, she shares a personal connection to blood donation that goes beyond the office walls. Having battled an illness that required both platelets and blood, Karen deeply understands the vital role donors play in saving lives. The gift of blood was readily available, thanks to the generosity of donors like herself. She looks forward to donating again, but until then, she works diligently to coordinate successful drives at work.
For Ralph, the commitment to blood donation is deeply rooted in a family tragedy. Thirty years ago, his nine-year-old niece lost her battle with leukemia. During her 9-month illness, she required dozens of blood transfusions. This experience made him realize the critical role that blood donors play in helping people in need. Today, his reliable blood donations stand as a testament to the enduring power of compassion and the impact one person can have on countless lives.
Kelcey, another dedicated Linde employee, has been donating blood since her 20s. For her, the act of giving blood is a tangible way to save lives. Kelcey emphasizes how advancements in efficiency, such as the Rapid Pass, have made donating blood more convenient than ever. In less than an hour, individuals can make a profound difference in the lives of others. Kelcey is committed to communicating the impact we can have, and Linde supports this effort by ensuring employees can conveniently donate during their workday.
Karen, Ralph and Kelcey represent the many faces of dedicated donors, who remain committed to saving lives. Linde embodies the belief that, together, a company and its employees can effect meaningful and positive change in the world. Through hosting regular blood drives and fostering employee participation, Linde has not only collected hundreds of blood donations but has also established a legacy of compassion, empathy, and profound social responsibility.
The Red Cross extends sincere appreciation to all corporate partners who host blood drives and inspire their communities to give back. Consider joining in this effort by hosting a blood drive.
Visit RedCrossBlood.org/HostADrive to learn more.
American Red Cross Connecticut Chapter 
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