Q&A: Giving the gift of blood during the pandemic

Interview by Sherry Long

Portland Herald Press music writer and content creator Aimsel Ponti is best known for her coverage of the vibrant music scene in a region considered a mecca for rock, independent and folk artists. She is also a devoted Red Cross of Northern New England blood donor who has been giving blood on a consistent basis for more than 20 years. She gave the gift of life again as Americans grappled with the Coronavirus pandemic. Ponti admitted she was little nervous about giving blood during the pandemic. After thinking about all the people who need blood donations in times of crisis, she scheduled an appointment for a blood donation because she had faith that the safety of donors, staff and volunteers was the top priority of the Red Cross. Read Ponti’s story below:

 

How was donating blood this time different from donating blood in the past? 

It didn’t feel all that different. During the blood drive people took precautions to practice social distancing and wear masks. Everyone – the donors, as well as the Red Cross staff and volunteers

 

What prompted you to donate blood during this Coronavirus pandemic?

I was concerned that less donations would be made because people might be nervous about donating. And the need for donations is always present because of the shelf life of blood.

 

Many people are nervous about donating blood and concerned about physical distancing during this pandemic. Were you nervous prior to showing up at the blood drive? Why do you feel it was important to encourage others to donate blood?

I was a little nervous because everything involved with “going out in the world” makes me nervous during this time of pandemic. But I had every confidence that the Red Cross would be taking every precautionary measure and was more than happy to share this experience so as to inspire others to make donations.

Ponti donated blood at on of the Distance Saves Lives drives held each Wednesday at the Elks Lodge in Portland through July 1. The CEOs of area businesses and other organizations have partnered with MaineHealth and the American Red Cross on this initiative. Visit redcrossblood.org/give (use the sponsor code MaineHealth for a Distance Saves Lives drive or search for a drive near you).