I marvel at the calm way the Red Cross blood team works. When I arrived at the South Portland Community Center last Wednesday, they were an hour behind schedule. And right now they are working against the clock because area hospitals only have a half-day supply on hand, when they really need a five-day supply.

Nevertheless, when Gary – a five-year veteran blood team worker – finally got to me, I was carefully processed, and soon had a needle in my arm and the blood began flowing – until it slowed down and nearly stopped. The team leader, Cindy, was called over, and it was touch and go whether my much-needed pint bag was going to get filled to a usable level or not.

She and Gary worked together, and Gary had his hand on that arm of mine the whole time to make sure our joint effort was a success. Some would have given up on the process and moved on to an easier arm than mine, but he hung in there and we made it!

Thanks, Gary and Cindy, and blessings to whoever ends up receiving my blood. I’ll be back to give again, and hope others will join me.

Rev. Jonathan Wright-Gray
Old Orchard Beach