Celebrating Moms Touched by Blood Donation

By Sydney Diamond, American Red Cross Intern and Laura McGuire, American Red Cross

This Mother’s Day three moms share their heartfelt appreciation for the blood donors who gave them the ultimate gift.

Jess’s story:

In August 2019, Jess Owsiany’s son, Spencer, was born with a heart murmur and a hole in his heart. At three months old he required two open heart surgeries and blood transfusions to keep him alive. Fast forward to today, Spencer is now an energetic three-and-a-half-year-old boy who is kind, funny, and sweet. He giggles often and he loves to play with toys and run around.

The harrowing experience of what her infant son went through, spending weeks in the hospital and receiving multiple blood transfusions, inspired Jess to give back. She began donating blood because she knows the value of blood donation firsthand. “I get motivation from my son who I know went through so much more,” said Jess.

Jess has donated over six units of blood and is committed to giving blood regularly. “Everyone knows someone who has needed blood at some time in their life, and you never know, you could end up being that person one day.”

Stephanie’s story:
In September 2022, Stephanie Kreis almost lost her life. During labor, she began hemorrhaging badly and required a hysterectomy. Living in a small town, the local hospital did not have enough blood for her. Thankfully, she was transferred to a larger hospital which had more resources and the blood she needed.

While Stephanie was fighting for her life, her son, Albie, was born with birth defects. The doctors diagnosed him with Ventriculomegaly, a condition where the brain ventricles are enlarged due to build-up of Cerebrospinal fluid. Albie ended up having five surgeries before he turned two months old, and he needed a blood transfusion.

Between Stephanie and Albie’s surgeries over 22 units of blood were used to keep them alive. “You truly never know whose life you will be saving,” said Stephanie. “My life and my son’s life were saved thanks to blood donors. We wouldn’t be here today if someone didn’t take the time to donate.”      

Stephanie hopes that sharing her story can motivate others to give blood. “I will forever be thankful for the individuals who made the time and now I make it a priority to donate,” said Stephanie.

Kresta’s story:

In October 2019, Kresta Finger’s son, Max, underwent emergency surgery after taking a hit in a high school football game. Doctors had to remove his spleen, and during surgery, he received two units of blood.

Going through this experience with her son motivated Kresta to become a regular blood donor herself. As a way to show her appreciation for the blood her son received, she now gives blood in Max’s honor.

Kresta donates blood through the American Red Cross, saying she finds the process to be quick and easy. “You aren’t sacrificing much more than an hour of your time to potentially help save someone’s life,” she said.

Every two seconds, someone in the U.S, needs blood. That someone could be a mom. This Mother’s Day, help save a life and make a difference for a patient, a mom or a family in need with a blood donation. To schedule an appointment to give, simply download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

American Red Cross Celebrates 2024 Local Heroes

Awards given in eight categories to honorees who embody the American Red Cross humanitarian spirit

The American Red Cross of Southeast Wisconsin is pleased to announce the local heroes that will be honored at its 2024 Brave Hearts Gala on Thursday, May 9 at 5 p.m. at The Garage at the Harley-Davidson Museum.

The annual Brave Hearts Gala celebrates the humanitarian mission of the American Red Cross and the local heroes who have gone above and beyond in their efforts to build better communities and make a positive impact on the lives of others. This year’s event will include dinner, a live and silent auction and the inspiring stories of our 2024 Heroes.

“It is an honor to recognize the significant contributions of these community members who have gone above and beyond, to help those in need,” said Mark Thomas, CEO and Regional Executive for the Red Cross of Wisconsin. “Their kindness, compassion, and selfless service truly embody the humanitarian spirit of the American Red Cross. We look forward to sharing their stories and we know that everyone who attends this year’s event will be truly inspired.”

Heroes in eight categories will be honored: Blood Services Hero, Community Impact Hero, Disaster Relief Hero, Emergency Response Hero, William J. Murgas Hero, Military Hero, Red Cross Hero, and Youth & Young Adult Hero. These categories reflect various aspects of the Red Cross mission.

The 2024 Heroes are:

• Blood Services Hero – Silvia Ortega
• Community Impact Hero – Todd Jackson
• Disaster Relief Hero – Tim Lavin
• Emergency Response Hero – Milwaukee Fire Chief Aaron Lipski
• William J. Murgas Hero – Steve Buck
• Military Hero – Matthew McDonell
• Red Cross Hero – Marge Gaeth
• Youth & Young Adult Hero – Whitnall High School Red Cross Club

The 2024 Brave Hearts Gala is made possible thanks to the generosity of our sponsors: Brewers Community Foundation, Clarios, Generac Power Systems, Halo Branded Solutions, Johnson Controls, Milwaukee Business Journal, Molson Coors, Northwestern Mutual, and Snap-on. All proceeds benefit the programs and people helped by the Southeast Wisconsin Chapter of the American Red Cross.

National Nurses Week – Highlighting Volunteer Nurse Sue Favero

By Laura McGuire, American Red Cross

This week is National Nurses Week, a time when we honor and thank our many volunteer nurses who play a vital role helping to deliver our humanitarian mission to those in need.

Recently we had the pleasure of chatting with Sue Favero, a Red Cross nurse-turned-volunteer who has dedicated over 25 years to our lifesaving mission. Sue is from Wisconsin and she’s a snowbird, who migrates to Arizonia during the winter months. She is warmhearted, compassionate and kind and she joins fellow volunteer Red Cross nurses bringing relief to disaster victims, working in military hospitals, collecting lifesaving blood and teaching courses in CPR and first aid.

At an early age, Favero made house calls with her mother, who was also a nurse, which introduced her to the healthcare field. “It’s all about neighbors helping neighbors,” said Favero.

Favero’s first experience with the Red Cross occurred when she was a senior in high school, and she received her certification as a lifeguard from the Red Cross. As her nursing career developed, Favero worked in operating rooms alongside doctors, nurses and surgical teams. After 22 years of service, she retired as a colonel with the Army National Guard.

In 1999 Favero started volunteering with the Red Cross providing disaster health care services and training others in CPR. Her volunteer service led her to deploy more than 25 times to local and national disasters. Like many volunteers, nurses are able to deploy to help disaster-struck areas across the nation to provide initial medical services and care at shelters and disaster sites.

Favero’s most challenging deployment during her time volunteering for the Red Cross was a wildfire in Paradise, CA in 2018. “The entire town burnt down, homes and schools were lost including the local hospital and all their patients’ medical records. “I usually would call the local clinic, doctor’s office or drug store to get a prescription refilled for clients but in this case, no one had any records due to the severity of the disaster,” said Favero. A make-shift clinic was brought into the area where people were evaluated and orders for medication and supplies were ordered. “I was glad to help people in such a terrible time.”

Favero is also part of the Red Cross’ Integrated Care and Condolence Team which coordinates services for families whose loved ones are injured, missing or deceased due to a disaster. “People are at their darkest moments, and they often can’t see what’s going to happen the next day,” said Favero. “We listen, talk, and empathize with people and provide them with hope and a sense of peace.”

Favero also encourages others to volunteer. “We work long, hard days, but we get so much more back than we give,” she said. “I am proud to represent the Red Cross and work with some amazing volunteers, doctors, hospitals, government and community partners that share the mission of the Red Cross.” 

The American Red Cross relies on the more than 20,000 nurses and other health professionals who bring our mission to life each day We are grateful to all the dedicated nurses like Sue Favero, who have shared their expertise with the Red Cross and make their life’s work about helping others.

If you’re a nurse, nursing student or other health professional, we hope that you consider volunteering with the Red Cross – you can make a meaningful impact by serving individuals and communities. Visit: www.redcross.org/local/wisconsin/volunteer.html  to learn more.

Two Local Red Cross Volunteers Receive National Presidential Award

By Laura McGuire, American Red Cross

Trevor Riggen, President, Humanitarian Services of the American Red Cross, Dave Nelson and Gail McGovern, CEO, President of the American Red Cross.

Trevor Riggen, President, Humanitarian Services of the American Red Cross, Linda Glusenkamp, Kathy Kollath and Gail McGovern, CEO, President of the American Red Cross.

Dave Nelson, from Eau Claire, WI, and Kathy Kollath, from Verona, WI, were awarded the 2024 Presidential Award of Excellence in the category of Humanitarian Services during celebrations held at American Red Cross-national headquarters in Washington, D.C. on April 10 and 11, 2024.

The Presidential Award for Excellence is presented to an individual or group of Red Cross employees or volunteers who demonstrate exceptional performance or service in support of the Red Cross multi-faceted mission. The nominee’s actions must go beyond meeting organizational goals and expectations and be exemplary of the highest level of commitment toward the successful delivery of the Red Cross mission.

“I am humbled and honored to receive the Red Cross President’s Award for the humanitarian services for the Red Cross and for all the clients we serve, said Nelson. “I do this work as I believe our communities need our involvement, so I choose to be involved to bring relief to those in need after disaster strikes.”

Nelson was recognized with the Presidential Award of Excellence for going above and beyond in his service to the Red Cross in 2022. When the conflict in Ukraine occurred, the need for Service to the Armed Forces (SAF) team members had increased significantly and a number of volunteers were asked to consider serving in this manner. Nelson was identified and recruited to serve overseas for our SAF team as a Regional Program Specialist/Site Lead in Bulgaria.

Nelson began his Red Cross volunteer service in 2012. Throughout his time with the Red Cross, Nelson has been “all in” with his volunteer activities and has served in many local, regional and national leadership roles.

Kollath has been a Red Cross volunteer since 2016 and works behind the scenes to support our Wisconsin Region Volunteer Services and the National Headquarters (NHQ) Volunteer Services team. Her position specifically supports the Volunteer Intake Processing Center (VIPC), a network of volunteers positioned across the country who work together to guide potential new volunteers through the intake process. Kollath is one of six volunteers throughout the country who received this team award.

In 2023, the American Red Cross received nearly 187,000 volunteer applications. All applications are processed through the VIPC. This team of six supports individuals who need assistance with completing their volunteer application. They take approximately 850 calls per month from new volunteers providing one on one support, the team averages 10,000 calls per year. They also logged 14,000 individualized emails to assist prospective volunteers with their applications.

“It is a great honor that we received this award,” said Kollath. “Being recognized and acknowledged is a true statement of a great organization that values helping others and embracing the volunteer process.”

The Red Cross of Wisconsin is honored to have Dave Nelson and Kathy Kollath on our team. They are a true reflection of the Red Cross mission – here at home and around the world.

Red Cross Volunteer Exemplifies Dedication to the Mission

By Laura McGuire, American Red Cross

This April during National Volunteer Month, we’re shining a light on the people who inspire us to serve, recognizing their work, and thanking them for lending their time, talent, and voice to making a difference in their communities.

Chris Huston is one of our amazing volunteers for the American Red Cross of Wisconsin Northcentral chapter. Huston first got involved with the Red Cross in 1995 after his family lost their home in a fire. He saw the Red Cross mission in action providing comfort, care and help to his family and it inspired him to volunteer.

“I’ll help in any way I can,” said Huston.

Huston is a disaster workforce engagement volunteer. He helps to manage a field team to secure buildings for shelters, headquarters and warehouses and he is usually one of the first volunteers called after a disaster, many times only given 24 hours to prepare to deploy. His roles have taken him from Maine to Maui with disasters such as hurricanes, floods, tornadoes and wildfires.

“I have deployed nationally five to seven times a year for the last seven years,” said Huston.” In total Huston has deployed about 50 times, and he has seen many places and faces in need of help. He has Red Cross friends all across the country and is delighted when someone asks for him by name.

In 2020 right before COVID, he had his lower leg amputated but that didn’t stop Huston. “I told my prosthetic doctor that I had to be walking by May so I could continue working in the field,” said Huston.

Huston has other health challenges, but his tenacious nature will not allow him to give up volunteering for the Red Cross. His current position has been transitioned to a virtual role allowing him to work from home, answer calls, work with new volunteers and still work as a deployment officer and advanced training instructor. “I am grateful for the last seven years with the Red Cross because of all the things I have accomplished,” said Huston.

If you are interested in becoming a Red Cross volunteer, learn more about the open opportunities near you by visiting www.redcross.org/local/wisconsin/volunteer.

Volunteer Spotlight – Cindy Milgram

Cindy Milgram joined the American Red Cross during the global pandemic in 2021 as a way to make a difference in her community. She volunteers in the Fund Development department raising money to the support the Red Cross mission, onboarding department volunteers, assisting with fundraising events, and donor stewardship.

Milgram said one of the many benefits of volunteering is that it allowed her access to Red Cross training services classes like CPR. By taking a Red Cross class, she was able to become certified in hands-only CPR and raise awareness about heart disease and engage others in learning
this life-saving skill. “The American Red Cross is an
amazing organization that has provided me with many
opportunities. I am a proud Red Cross volunteer,” said Milgram.

Red Cross Volunteer and High School Teacher Inspires Young Blood Donors

By Laura McGuire, American Red Cross

During National Volunteer Month, we salute our Red Cross volunteers, celebrate their accomplishments and recognize them for their lifesaving work. Without these volunteer heroes the Red Cross could not achieve our mission of helping people in need.

When the American Red Cross reached out to, Kim Houser, an agricultural science teacher, to host a blood drive at Wisconsin Heights High School she couldn’t say no.

For the last 25 years Houser has been saying yes to blood drives and she has been a loyal Red Cross blood program lead volunteer and a teacher at the school. She is warm, kind and a wonderful giving teacher who inspires her students to donate blood to help save lives and educates them on the constant need for blood in the community.   

Since 1999, she has mentored many students and hosted over 50 blood drives that resulted in collecting nearly 2,300 lifesaving donations. “Even if you can’t donate blood there is so much you can do – make cookies, pour juice, encourage others to give blood,” said Houser.

Many of the students who have helped organize blood drives over the years have walked away with great community experience and Red Cross Leaders Save Lives scholarships for their work. “Anytime I can bring community into the school I’m a 100% for it. I love my job and the sense of accomplishment it brings,” said Houser.

In November of 2023, Houser experienced a medical condition that required her to receive a blood transfusion. After experiencing severe blood loss, lack of energy and not feeling well, she was given a blood transfusion which had an immediate impact on her health condition. It allowed her to feel like herself again.

Houser hosted a spring blood drive a few weeks ago and this was one was a bit more personal. Now when hosting blood drives she tells others her story and how important lifesaving blood can be to those who need it. “You never know when you will be the one needing blood,” said Houser.

“If I could talk to the donor who gave me blood, I would give them a big hug, graciously thank them over and over and tell them how special they are to me. I would also thank the Red Cross for what they do every day since it makes a big difference in the lives of others,” said Houser.

Our volunteers are the true heart and soul of the Red Cross, they represent more than 90% of our workforce and they make it possible for us to help people in need every day. Volunteers provide comfort and relief to help ensure people don’t face emergencies alone. Each day, volunteers support blood drives, assist veterans and military families, provide food and shelter after disasters of all sizes and so much more. You, too, can volunteer and help make a real difference in people’s lives.

 Visit redcross.org/volunteer for a complete list of current volunteer opportunities in your area.

Shining a Light on Youth Volunteerism

By Sydney Diamond, American Red Cross Intern

Eden Tan is a senior at Brookfield Central High School and after graduation this spring she will be attending Brown University. She has been volunteering with the American Red Cross of Wisconsin for the past four years and she has taken her volunteerism to the next level. Eden holds the position of Field Ambassador and she is the first youth volunteer in Wisconsin to ever hold this position.

There is only one Field Ambassador per region, these volunteers serve as liaisons between their local region and the National Youth Council, promoting monthly national initiatives and working closely with local chapters and clubs to develop youth programs tailored to their region’s needs.

After hearing about the blood shortage during COVID, Eden wanted to become a blood donor ambassador, but she was only 14 at the time and to qualify for the position, volunteers must be 16 years of age or older. “I really wanted to help and was determined to find an alternative way to provide help during this time,” said Eden. As a result, she founded the Red Cross Club at her high school. She thought this was an easy and fun way for students to volunteer and get involved in their community.

In the last four years Eden has been the president of her local Red Cross Club at her school. She has been organizing events and efforts to help spread awareness about the Red Cross mission. Since starting the club, she has received positive feedback and has recruited many new ambitious members.

“Volunteering with the Red Cross has been an amazing experience,” said Eden. “My goal is to get more involved in the community and give back in tangible ways and this opportunity provided that chance. Discovering what works in the community and what needs more participation keeps me involved.”

If you are interested in becoming a Red Cross volunteer, learn more about the open opportunities near you by visiting www.redcross.org/local/wisconsin/volunteer.

Robotic therapy pets find their forever home at Veterans Hospital in Madison

By Laura McGuire, American Red Cross

Members of the Board of Directors for the American Red Cross Southwest Wisconsin Chapter, John Heisler, Sara Horein and Elizabeth Kirchstein made a special delivery to the William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital in Madison WI. During Red Cross Month, six companion robotic therapy dogs and cats, found their forever home.

Four dogs and two cats arrived ready to react to human touch and voice, similar to a real pet. Their main intent will be to improve residents’ wellbeing through lowering anxiety and raising companionship. The use of robotic pets has shown to be highly effective in lessening loneliness, improving communications, and facilitating social interactions.

According to multiple studies, these interactive robopets are proven to provide joy and comfort to those with dementia and memory issues who experience agitation. The robopets can help residents calm down, feel less agitated and provide the pet owner with a sense of responsibility, care and structure. The robopets can be petted, combed and even washed. There is no need to feed, walk or clean up after them.

The Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces in Wisconsin is excited to provide the robopets to the Veterans hospital when so many residents are experiencing increased isolation due to medical conditions.

Elizabeth Kirchstein, Kyle Kriegl, Jim Barrett, Matthew Jones, Saran Horein and John Heisler.

Jeff Kazel, Interim Director for Service to the Armed Forces in Wisconsin couldn’t have imagined a time where furry robotic animals would provide comfort and healing for Veterans. “The animals are a wonderful addition to the facility,” said Kazel. “We are hoping Veterans create a meaningful connection with their companions and are taken back to a happy, comforting time. We anticipate the robopets will become part of the resident’s life, given names and be treated like any living pet.”

The Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces is dedicated supporting to our valued veteran community in all phases of their life. If you are  interested in helping our veteran community, please reach out to RedCross.org for volunteer opportunities in your area.

Green Bay man donates 176 gallons of blood to help the tiniest of patients

By Laura McGuire, American Red Cross

Bill “Waz” Waerzeggers from Green Bay, WI knows the importance of giving blood. In December Waz celebrated 34 years of donating. At his most recent donation on Wednesday, March 6, Waz hit over 1407 units of blood donated which equates to 176 gallons! That’s a breakdown of 43 units of whole blood, 935 units of platelets, 105 units of plasma and 324 adjusted units. Over the course of 34 years Waz has donated 706 times.

“It’s the little things in life that we can do to make a big difference and I am so happy I can help,” said Waz. “Knowing that I am helping someone is such a good feeling, and everyone who can donate should donate to help others.”

While this is definitely an amazing milestone, there’s something even more special about Waz’s story. His blood type O-negative with CMV-negative antibodies means he’s a universal donor, he’s also among the 15% of the population with CMV-negative blood.

CMV-negative blood is referred to as pediatric-specific blood because it’s used to treat newborns whose immune systems are not yet fully developed. Babies needing transfusions as part of their medical care should only receive blood from donors who have not been exposed to CMV.

CMV, also known as Cytomegalovirus, is a flu-like virus that most adults are exposed to at some point in their lives. Regular testing is conducted on blood donations to check for CMV antibodies. The CMV virus is present in up to 85 percent of adults by age 40 making CMV negative status a special quality. CMV-negative blood has no CMV virus antibodies.

O-negative and O-positive donors who are CMV-negative are often referred to as “Heroes for Babies.” Without this special group of blood donors, sick babies would not receive the lifesaving blood transfusions they desperately need.

CMV-negative blood also helps people with weakened immune systems, such as cancer and transplant patients. Their systems are very fragile. Their eyes, lungs, liver, nervous system, and gastrointestinal tract may be damaged if they do not receive CMV-negative blood.

Thanks to donors like Waz, the Red Cross can send pediatric-specific blood products to hospitals throughout the country every day. Waz hopes to continue donating blood for as long as he can.

To learn more about how you can be a Hero for Babies, visit  https://www.redcrossblood.org/donate-blood/dlp/donor-rewards/hero-for-babies-rewards.html. To learn more about donating blood please visit RedCrossBlood.org.