From Donor to Recipient: Why Giving Blood Matters This November

Vitalant shared the story of Jenna Simpson of Perham, MN with R&J News. For years, Jenna was a dedicated blood donor, never anticipating that she would one day be on the receiving end of that generosity. In her early 30s, severe bleeding ulcers caused life-threatening blood loss, and two emergency blood transfusions saved her life. Reflecting on her recovery, Jenna expressed deep gratitude to the strangers whose donations allowed her to return home to her family, a powerful reminder that medical emergencies can happen to anyone without warning.

Vitalant is encouraging community members to give back this November by hosting several local drives: Nov. 4 at Waubun High School from 9:00 AM–12:30 PM, Nov. 9  from 11:00 AM–6:00 PM and Nov. 10 from 7:45 AM–1:00 PM at Wesley United Methodist Church in Crookston, Nov. 18 at Crookston High School from 9:30 AM–2:30 PM and Shooting Star Casino in Mahnomen from 10:00 AM–1:00 PM, Nov. 20 at Bemidji State University from 10:45 AM–2:45 PM, and Nov. 24 at Goodridge High School from 11:15 AM–2:15 PM.

As a thank you, all donors in November will be entered to win one of three $10,000 prepaid shopping spree gift cards. Those who give between Nov. 1 and Nov. 22 can redeem an exclusive Winnie-the-Pooh T-shirt, and donors giving between Nov. 23 and Nov. 30 with code THANKFUL-2026-V will receive a $20 Rewards gift card. To book an appointment, visit vitalant.org, use the Vitalant app, or call 877-25-VITAL (877-258-4825).