A national tragedy inspires a lifelong mission of giving

By Dan Dowling – regional communications manager 

“I'm grateful that my health has permitted me to donate as long as I have. It has been an easy way for me to contribute to help. I feel good about being able to do this.” 

Gary Schilmoeller’s first step into blood donation came after the tragic events of September 11th, 2001. Both he and Kathy responded to a call to donate and found themselves side by side on donation beds at the blood drive. 

“It just so happened that they called both of us up at the same time, and we were beside each other as we donated,” Gary recalls. 

A local news station was there at the blood drive to cover the event and featured Gary and his wife for the news story. The experience sparked a lifelong commitment to donating blood. 

“They made a big deal about it on the news, and that was what got me started on giving blood. I've been doing that ever since,” he says. 

Having moved to Maine in 1980 to teach at the University of Maine, Gary settled into a life of purpose alongside his wife, Kathy, and their two sons. After retiring in 2015, he continued finding ways to contribute to his community, particularly through blood donation. 

“Kathy and I are both very grateful that we've had as good health as we have,” Gary says. 

Donating blood runs in the family. Gary’s father was a regular donor and a major influence on his decision to start giving blood. Being an O positive donor, Gary knows the importance of his life-saving donation. Type O positive is the most transfused blood type and can be transfused to Rh-positive patients of any blood type. He has donated many gallons of blood since the tragedy of 9/11. 

Type O is the most in-demand blood group and often the first to be depleted from hospital shelves during a shortage. Having enough type O blood on the shelves is important for ongoing patient care and emergencies. 

Gary finds joy not just in giving, but in the experience itself. Known for his “great veins,” he’s often the favorite of technicians, who occasionally bring others to observe his donations. 

“If there was an Olympic competition for that, I might be able to win a medal,” Gary jokes. 

While 62% of people are able to donate blood, only about 3% do. Gary sees his commitment over the years as an opportunity to inspire others. 

“I would encourage people to think about the fact that if they are eligible to give blood, it is an opportunity to do something for the larger community. It doesn't take a lot of time but has incredibly important possibilities for helping someone else,” Gary explains. 

For Gary, it’s all about connection. The notifications he receives through the blood donor app, telling him where his blood has been used, deepen his sense of purpose. Gary’s story is a reminder of the profound impact blood donors can have. 

“Knowing the impact of my donations keeps me motivated,” he shares. 

The Red Cross depends on the generosity of volunteers to ensure blood products are available at a moment’s notice. Make your appointment to give blood. Visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS.