January is National Volunteer Blood Donor Month, and there’s no better time to celebrate donors like Tom Brant, who gave his first blood donation in July 1984 and, more than 40 years later, has now reached a milestone of attaining his 200th blood donation, with each donation involving one pint of blood.
200 pints – an amount that would fill almost two standard bathtubs – is enough blood to help more than 600 patients.
Tom, who has received care through WellSpan over these many years, says he continues to donate to give back, for the kindness he’s received over the years.
“It’s the WellSpan team members and technicians,” Tom said. “They’re always welcoming and accommodating. Over the years, there was never a reason not to come back – or even to reschedule.”
Two years ago, he set a personal goal to hit 200 donations – and thanks to the support of the team at WellSpan Apple Hill Blood Donor Center, he achieved it.
“Tom’s dedication is truly inspiring,” said Steve LaCour, laboratory supervisor, York – WellSpan Apple Hill Blood Donor Center. “His commitment to giving back for nearly 40 years not only saves lives, it motivates our team and reminds us why we do this work.”
Giving back runs in Tom’s family. His mother retired from WellSpan’s Food Services, and his father volunteered with WellSpan for 19 years, instilling a lifelong commitment to service.
After retiring in 2009, Tom and his wife – who volunteered for WellSpan from 1999 to 2022 – decided to continue that legacy together. In October 2012, they began volunteering at WellSpan Surgery and Rehabilitation Hospital, where Tom now welcomes patients and visitors at the main reception desk.
“My intent is to continue to volunteer and donate blood to the York community for as long as I physically can,” he said.
Beyond WellSpan, Tom volunteers with other organizations, driven by a deep commitment to helping his community.
This National Volunteer Blood Donor Month, we celebrate Tom and all donors whose generosity saves lives every day. And with 200 donations, his impact is undeniable.
If you would like to be like Tom and contribute to saving lives, consider donating blood today.
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