![news image](https://www.vitalant.org/getattachment/ea892a55-5c47-4048-886d-902cc127ed7f/Mitzy.jpg?lang=en-US&ext=.jpg)
You Help Save Patients Like Alex: A Letter From Mitzy Edgecomb
In each of my messages to you, I have shared my heartfelt gratitude for the work you do to ensure blood is available for patients in need. Your unwavering dedication is truly inspiring. My expression of gratitude has become very personal over this last year.
In May of 2021, the twenty-eight-year-old daughter of one of my oldest and dearest friends was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). As you can imagine, the news was absolutely devasting to her family and friends...
![news image](https://www.vitalant.org/getattachment/1588dc27-9eeb-47f4-a83a-a99fd43f407f/National-Nurses-Day.PNG?lang=en-US&ext=.png)
Recognizing Vitalant’s Nurses on National Nurses Day
National Nurses Day on May 6 celebrates those continuing to live the legacy of Florence Nightingale, the mother of modern nursing whose sanitary care efforts reduced Crimean War death rates from 42% to 2%. Nurses have always played a vital role in health care, but the past two years of facing the COVID-19 pandemic have brought the stories of these frontline heroes to the forefront. We're proud of all the nurses belonging to the Vitalant family and their roles supporting donors, patients, and the hospitals we serve.
![news image](https://www.vitalant.org/getattachment/e1e83084-4961-4f84-8ba0-792874e9db18/Vitalant_Mothers_Day_give_blood.png?lang=en-US&ext=.png)
Mother's Day Memories
As we celebrate Mother's Day in May, a young mom shares how her life was saved by the generosity of blood donors. That’s why blood donation is a great way to mark Mother’s Day or to honor the mother figure in your life.
![news image](https://www.vitalant.org/getattachment/048da517-30ef-40f7-a6d8-5e801e62a6c4/Vitalant_blood_deferral.png?lang=en-US&ext=.png)
Blood Donation Deferral
The FDA has established blood donation requirements and deferral information designed to keep the blood supply safe from bloodborne diseases, and also keep patients safe.
![news image](https://www.vitalant.org/getattachment/3c803886-2ea0-44c6-804d-4286ea61359d/empty-donor-beds.jpg?lang=en-US&ext=.jpg)
Blood Drives and COVID-19
Though pandemic restrictions have eased, blood drives still feel the pain. Could your next blood donation be at a Virtual Blood Drive?