After saving lives for 55 years, this February, George Thompson reached a true milestone and became a 75 gallon blood donor.

This dedicated blood donor’s donation experience began in 1957 when he responded to a call for blood donors due to a serious car accident in the area. At the time, testing was limited to blood typing, so his donation when directly from himself to the patient. 

In 1970, George began to give regularly. A regular donation at that time meant once a year; however, he stuck with it, giving more frequently as the needs and regulations changed.

In April of 1990 George saw first-hand the benefits of his donations.

“My wife was diagnosed with breast cancer and I quickly educated myself on the benefits of giving another type of donation; platelets,” George explained. “At that point, I was at four and half gallons of whole blood. When I switched to platelets, I was able to donate more frequently and my donation numbers kept increasing.”

George now views donating as a way to give back to his community and finds comfort in knowing that he’s helped others. He received the Lifetime Achievement Award in 2005 from Governor Dave Heineman for 250 platelet donations.

“I was blessed to have a very high platelet count,” George noted. “That is a gift I don’t intend on wasting.”

To this day, George continues to pursue two passions in his life; blood donation and bowling. While he continues to maintain a regular donation schedule, he wants to do more and encourages others to give too.

 “I know fear of the needle is a big reason why people don’t donate, but it’s so easy,” George explained. “The staff is fantastic; there is no reason to be fearful.”

George is a true example of selflessness and commitment, but still has one more goal he’d like to reach.

“My next goal is 100 gallons,” George concluded. “I just enjoy doing it and I plan on donating as long as I’m healthy enough to give.”

Congratulations George! Thanks for being an example in the community and for being the type that gives.