Coordinator Spotlight

Olga Arias-Field - Scott & White Waco Clinic

Donating blood has always been important to Olga because she saw early on in her studies as a Medical Technologist what a difference the simple process made in people's lives.

"I remember seeing a 10-year-old Hemophiliac come in almost monthly and a tiny premature infant receiving blood," Olga said. "So when your flyers say things like 'Be a hero and save a life,' I know it's not exaggerating!"

When Olga began working at Scott & White Waco Clinic 19 years ago, she joined the Bone Marrow donor list. One day she received a call asking if she would also help with the blood drive.

"Since then, I have always been called on," Olga said. "I enjoy putting these drives together."

So far, Olga has recruited more than 1651donors to give 998 pints of blood.

"The way I look at it is one pint of blood donated is better than none, and you know that every pint is going to do someone good," Olga said.

She adds: "Of course we hope to break our record each time. That is always my goal."

Olga's Tips for Success

• About 10 days before the drive, I start putting out e-mails reminding everyone of the day of the drive.
• About five to seven days before the drive, I send out another e-mail and let everyone know the sign-up sheet is in the break room. I always offer to sign up for them if they'll just reply to my e-mail.
• I like to let donor know how their pint of blood may be used. It makes it a little more personal.
• I always try to be available for any questions donors may have.
• I fax over announcement requests to the local radio stations.
• Employees like to know how the drive did, so I always forward the information after the drive and take the opportunity to thank them one more time for their generosity. I think it's important to thank their co-workers who cover for them whilte they donate.