Red Cross believer shows “good things come in threes”

By Laura McGuire, American Red Cross

Cindy Stiffler has been on both sides of the table when it comes to receiving and giving blood products.

But it’s her passion as an American Red Cross volunteer that brings to mind the quote, “all good things come in threes”.

In 2018, Stiffler was diagnosed with breast cancer. Through her journey with cancer she endured chemotherapy, radiation, multiple surgeries and she required blood and platelets. Once during her recovery, she needed to wait for blood. Thanks to the Red Cross’ advance inventory management system, blood was located in another state and was transported to the hospital for her transfusion.

Cindy Stiffler at a blood drive in Madison. Photo by Laura McGuire / American Red Cross

Stiffler started giving blood in college and has been a loyal blood donor ever since. Her journey with cancer paused her donations, but now she is donating again. She will reach her 20th donation milestone later this month.

“Donating is a good thing to do,” Stiffler said. “You never know when you’ll be on the other side needing blood. I have O-negative blood and I know how important that is to share with others.”

In 2013, Stiffler started volunteering at Red Cross blood drives and has been volunteering in the Madison area for the last six years. When asked about what drives her passion, she said she respects the mission of the Red Cross and enjoys how easy and meaningful it is to help. She likes volunteering at blood drives because she knows she has a direct impact on someone’s life. 

Stiffler’s passion for the Red Cross started early in life. She remembers seeing the Red Cross at work when a friend’s house caught on fire.

“The Red Cross’ disaster team was on the ground instantly providing my friend’s family with comfort, care and essential needs,” said Stiffler. “It’s a comfort knowing that the Red Cross is always there. It’s good people doing good work.”

The Red Cross is grateful for Cindy Stiffler as she continues to fulfil her passion as a loyal blood donor and volunteer.

Every cancer survivor’s ability to donate blood will be determined on a case by case basis. Eligibility is ultimately determined by the type of cancer you had and the treatment you received. For eligibility requirements please visit redcrossblood.org.