Local Hero Promotion

Jennifer Murphy has been donating blood for nearly 20 years, inspired by the simple idea of helping someone she may never meet. “It just makes me happy,” she says.

Donating locally became even more meaningful after her family needed blood transfusions during COVID. “I never got to thank those donors,” she shares, “so I love knowing I could be helping someone in my own community.”

“It makes me feel like I was meant to do this,” she says. For first-time donors, her advice is simple: “It’s not as scary as it seems, and the staff will walk you through everything.”

BA Local Hero from the Cookeville Area – March Winner

Veena remembers feeling nervous before her first donation, but that quickly changed. “The process was seamless,” she says. “Don’t overthink the needle, because you’ll barely feel it.”

To her, donating is about looking out for the people around her. She found it especially meaningful knowing her blood would go to local hospitals. “I was inspired by the thought of being eternally thankful to whoever donated blood if I ever needed a transfusion,” she shares. “That’s why I wanted to be that person for somebody else.”

BA Local Hero from Georgia – February Winner

Lisa has been donating blood for over 30 years, starting with her very first donation at Coors Brewery in Golden, Colorado. “I donate because I care about my community and neighbors,” she says.

She believes in giving locally, adding, “We can’t save the whole world at once, so I prefer to donate locally.”

For first-time donors, Lisa offers honest advice: “I recommend finding a building location rather than a bus. The buses can feel tight and stuffy in warm weather, and if someone is already a bit nervous, this doesn’t help.”

BA Local Hero from Spring Hill, TN Area – February Winner

Allison has been donating for 25 years, ever since a high school blood drive where her grandpa encouraged her to give and even went with her.

“It’s just a very small way I can contribute to the greater good,” she says. While she appreciates that local donations support the community, she adds, “I’d be happy no matter where it went, as long as it went to someone in need.”

Her advice for first-time donors is simple: “Just do it. But don’t forget to eat first, and more importantly, make sure you’re hydrated.”

BA Local Hero from Cookeville Area – February Winner

Lyndi Bean set a goal this year to donate platelets 16 times as part of the Gold Club. “I have been donating for many years, and it is so rewarding to be able to help others,” she says.

A few years ago, Lyndi was even a platelet match for a patient, something that made the experience even more meaningful. “I enjoyed helping that patient during a time they needed donations,” she shares, and it continues to inspire her to keep giving.

BA Local Hero from Tullahoma Area – March Winner

Haley Vetter was inspired to donate after hearing Madelyn’s story. “I wanted to pay it forward in hopes of saving lives,” she says.

She believes donating locally is one of the most direct ways to care for others. “It turns compassion into something tangible and life-saving,” she shares.

Knowing her donation can make a difference gives her a sense of purpose. “In a world where a lot feels out of your control, donating blood is one clear, direct way to help,” she says.

For anyone considering donating, Haley keeps it simple: “Do it.” While she’s only donated twice in the past 10 years, she adds, “I definitely plan to give more often now.”

BA Local Hero from Nashville Area – March Winner

Sherri Taylor, BA Local Hero from the Tullahoma Area, April Winner
Sherri Taylor has been donating blood for about five years as a way to give back. “Blood donation is a way to pay it forward by being a blessing to someone without expecting something in return,” she says.
For first-time donors, her advice is simple. “The staff makes you feel very comfortable and it doesn’t take very long,” she shares. “The more times you donate, the easier it gets. Just start.”

Amanda Morgan, BA Local Hero from the Chattanooga Area, April Winner
Amanda Morgan’s commitment to donating became personal after a hospital stay in 2014, when she received four units of blood during treatment for colon cancer. “That experience showed me how important it is to have blood available,” she says.
Since then, she’s donated regularly and recently reached the 5-gallon milestone. “It’s a simple way to help,” she shares. For those considering donating, her advice is straightforward: “Just do it.”

Justin Kirby, BA Local Hero from the Greater Nashville Area, April Winner
Justin Kirby has been donating blood for 18 years, influenced by his work in healthcare. “It’s a small way I can help patients,” he says.
He knows it can feel intimidating at first. “It can be scary, but the staff does a great job helping you feel at ease,” he shares.

Daniel Jones, BA Local Hero from the Franklin Area, April Winner
Daniel Jones donates because he knows there’s always a need. “It’s easy to give, and people need it every day,” he says.
He first donated in college and has been giving regularly over the past two years. “I’ll keep going as long as I can,” he shares.