The Northern New England Blog

By Jennifer Costa, Red Cross communications director Alex Beal, first-time donor Alex Beal marked his birthday with something he’d never done before. “It is the first time ever that I’ve given blood in my life. That’s pretty momentous,” he said. For Alex, the day wasn’t about what he might receive, but about something he was finally able to give: the gift of life. “The fact that I can give blood that will save a life is amazing. I feel like that’s a great way to give back on your birthday, when so many people are reaching out and giving you their love and friendship. Now I can give back to the community with something valuable that I have – and can give. It’s a great day.” Alex’s path to blood donation has not been clear cut. He identifies as a gay man – and for decades, FDA policies restricted gay and bisexual men from donating blood.  “Our blood is no different than anyone else’s blood,” said Chris O’Connor, executive director of the Equality Community Center, a collaborative wor...