Some blood donors choose to donate after a personal experience. Others are inspired by a loved one in need. And then some begin in unexpected places like an order in a military training camp in 1967. This is a story shared by Cliff Slater.
I didn’t start donating blood by choice. It was an order. Back in 1967, while I was in military training, the commanders ordered the entire camp to donate blood. In those days, orders were followed without question. We were told there was a critical blood shortage and that our donations were urgently needed. By the end of that day we were told we had achieved a record the highest number of blood units ever collected at one place in a single day.
Looking back now, I believe that experience planted a seed. Many of those young soldiers went on to become regular blood donors like I did.
Nearly six decades later, I’m still donating. On 15 January 2026, in Riversdale, I donated my 216th units of blood. I was also the first donor in Riversdale for the year. That moment reminded me that generosity doesn’t have an age limit. At 76 years old, I’m proof that as long as you’re healthy, you can keep giving.
People often ask me what I would say to someone thinking about donating blood for the first time. My answer is always simple: think about how many lives you could help save. One donation can make a real difference. I also like to mention the bonus, every time you donate, you get a free mini health check. Your blood is tested at every visit, so while you’re helping someone else, you’re also keeping an eye on your own health.
Today, my motivation is stronger than ever. My goal is to donate as many units I can while I am still healthy and able. I want to give as much as I can, for as long as I can. My story is proof that blood donation isn’t about one moment. It’s about commitment over time. Whether it’s your first donation or your 216th, every unit makes a difference. Every donor makes a difference.
Sometimes, a journey that starts with an order can turn into a lifetime of purpose.
