National Preparedness Month: Prepare now for disasters

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By Eilene Guy, American Red Cross volunteer

September is National Preparedness Month and one of the pillars of the American Red Cross is helping us prepare for emergencies. Disasters. The unexpected!

Here in northern Ohio, we’re used to seasonal threats: snow and ice storms, thunderstorms and flooding, the occasional tornado alert and rogue straight-line winds that seem to come out of nowhere. Even extreme heat and power outages.

And, of course, home fires. About 90 percent of the emergencies that Red Cross volunteers respond to are home fires.

During the 12 months ending June 30, across northern Ohio alone, we responded to 1,123 disasters, helped 4,428 children and adults, and provided $1.2 million in financial assistance.

Sadly, three of those events were manmade disasters, in quiet residential neighborhoods. Remember the small plane that crashed into a house in Akron back in May? That house burned to the ground.

Or how about the gas line explosion that destroyed three homes and displaced 15 families in Twinsburg in July?

“I’m on the second floor and all my windows blew out. All I have is my phone, and myself,” a resident told a TV reporter in the aftermath. Red Crossers stepped in to help with shelter arrangements and funds for immediate needs in that neighborhood.

For years, the Red Cross has urged everyone to “Make a kit. Have a plan. Be informed.”

All sound advice, but there’s one thing we can all do right now that’s easier, quicker and cheaper: Download the free Red Cross Emergency App to your mobile phone. This resource links you to weather alerts, preparedness tips, even the location of shelters should that be needed.

The app even lets you send an “I’m safe” message to anyone you want to reassure if you happen to be in the vicinity of a disaster.

Put together a “go bag” of supplies you’d need if you had to shelter in place or evacuate on short notice: bottled water, non-perishable food items, flashlight and extra batteries, first aid kit and seven-day supply of medications (or at least copies of your prescriptions).

This is just for starters. Find a complete list at redcross.org.

And don’t forget items for anyone in the household with special needs, like a baby, or a pet!

Make a plan with your family. Does everybody know how to get out of the house in case of fire, for example? And can they do it in three minutes or less? Agree on a place to meet outside the home, so firefighters don’t have to go looking for someone inside. While you’re at it, be sure everyone in the household has family or friend phone numbers in their mobile phone; and be sure children know a parent or guardian’s phone number.

Be informed. Learn the location of storm shelters you can get to if a tornado threatens. Download free emergency alerts from your local law enforcement and Emergency Management Agency. They’ll be the first to let you know about everything from a road closure to a catastrophic event.

And take first aid and CPR/AED classes from your local Red Cross, so you’ll know how to save a life at home or on the go.

My husband says failing to plan is the same as planning to fail. Planning to deal with an emergency isn’t the same as wishing for one to happen. Planning is preparedness, and there’s no better time to do it than NOW!

For more preparedness tips, go to redcross.org and search the key words “disaster preparedness.”

Edited by Glenda Bogar, American Red Cross volunteer

Remembering the Red Cross role on 9/11

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The attack on America 25 years ago, on 9/11, 2001 brought out the best in people.

“Within the first 48 hours, the Red Cross in Northeast Ohio had deployed emergency response vehicles and workers (most of them volunteers) to both New York and Pennsylvania,” according to Debbie Chitester, Regional Disaster Action Team Manager from Northern Ohio.

September 12, 2001. New York City, New York.
Terrorist attack at the World Trade Center.
Photo by Daniel Cima/American Red Cross

Debbie went to New York with about two dozen other workers from Northeast Ohio. In this video, she recalls the role the Red Cross played in the days immediately after the attack at Ground Zero, where the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center were brought down. The National September 11 Memorial and Museum now stands at the site.

“It’s still very emotional for me,” Debbie added, “especially at this time of year.”

Debbie Chitester

Northeast Ohio Red Cross Workers were also deployed to Shanksville, Pa., where United Airlines Flight 93 crashed after the passengers fought the terrorists who had hijacked the plane.  The role the Red Cross played is acknowledged at the Flight 93 National Memorial in Shanksville, which is about a three and-a-half hour drive southeast of Cleveland.

In 2009, Congress designated September 11 as a National Day of Service and Remembrance. In honor of the sacrifice so many made on that day, many people donate blood at one of the numerous Red Cross blood drives held across the country, not only on 9/11, but also on the days preceding and following the anniversary of the attack.

Red Cross instructor and phlebotomist Linda King embraces her mom role

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By Tim Poe, American Red Cross volunteer

Among the cots and bustle of an American Red Cross blood drive, Linda King assisted donors and a newer phlebotomist when a long-time donor waved her over. When Linda approached the donor, whom she had known for years, the lady smiled and said, “You’re the mom. You’re such a mom.” Linda replied, “I know.”

Linda King, American Red Cross

Linda is happy to take on the role as “mom” to the many blood collectors she has helped over her 23+ years with the Red Cross as an on-the-job instructor and phlebotomist. “I love seeing new staff gain competence and flourish,” Linda said. She has also developed friendships with many donors, volunteers and others.

“I love it. I have the best job at the Red Cross,” Linda said.

As the Red Cross collects about 40% of the nation’s blood supply, blood collectors are vitally important to our mission. They take part in about 500 blood drives across the U.S. each day, helping ensure blood products are available whenever and wherever they are needed.

To help commemorate Blood Collectors Week, September 6-12,
I spoke to Linda about her experience at the forefront of one of the Red Cross’s core missions.

Linda’s Red Cross career began with a blood donor’s suggestion. “I was fresh out of classes when a friend who donated blood recommended I consider the Red Cross,” Linda said. Even while undergoing training, Linda knew she wanted to teach. Once she had five years’ experience as a phlebotomist, she also became an instructor.

Linda speaks highly of the many wonderful people she has met, including fellow Red Cross staff members, volunteers, blood donors and those she has met through travels to blood drives and Red Cross facilities. “It’s how I met my husband,” Linda said. They met when Linda was traveling to teach in Cleveland. He is also a blood donor.

Linda especially loves seeing those she trained take flight and continue their careers.

I asked Linda about her experience during blood emergencies. “The recent emergency was very well managed,” Linda said. “We saw a lot of new donors as well as the return of many who hadn’t donated for years.”

Linda also said that, in a blood emergency, she often sees nurses and blood bank staff members donating blood. “They see the effects of a blood emergency firsthand, like surgeries being postponed because there isn’t enough blood,” Linda said.

I asked Linda what she tells those interested in a blood collector career with the Red Cross. She said, “It’s a great job. As I say, I have the best job here. You get to travel, meet people, go to awesome places and meet a lot of repeat donors. The job has been wonderful.”

To those considering donating, Linda said, “Definitely give it a chance. It is so streamlined now, donors can answer the required questions at home and taking vitals is much quicker.” She also said that each day, a donor who hasn’t donated in a while expresses happiness that the finger prick for a hemoglobin check is no longer needed. “About 90% said it was the worst part,” she said.

Linda and her husband also enjoy camping, and traveling throughout our region helps them discover interesting towns and places. She is also an avid reader.

To schedule a blood donation, please visit RedCrossBlood.org.

To learn more about joining the American Red Cross in blood collection or other lines of service, visit RedCross.org.

Edited by Glenda Bogar, American Red Cross volunteer

Join the kindness adventure with Hello Kitty® x Red Cross

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By Kathryn Dean, American Red Cross volunteer

Attention all Millennials & Gen Xers, Hello Kitty is back! Nostalgia is hitting younger generations, and Hello Kitty has become a viral sensation. Before you rummage through your home for old collectibles to sell online, consider making an appointment with the American Red Cross to give blood this September.

Thanks to the kindness and generosity of donors who stepped up in recent months, the summer blood crisis is over. However, the need for blood is constant.  With hurricane season fast approaching and the recent flooding disasters overseas, the Red Cross wants to keep a steady blood supply on hand in preparation of emergencies.

To show our appreciation, the Red Cross and Hello Kitty® and Friends are partnering this September to bring you an exclusive collectible! When you come in to donate blood between Sept. 1-20, you will receive a Red Cross × Hello Kitty® plush mascot clip and surprise sticker pack, while supplies last! 

Remember:

  • One donation of whole blood can help save up to three people’s lives.
  • Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. requires a blood product.
  • 62% of people in the U.S. meet eligibility requirements to donate, yet only around 3% actually do.

One small act of kindness can make a world of difference in someone’s life.  Help care for your community by donating a renewable resource that you carry around every day: your blood. For more details regarding this special promotion, visit RedCrossBlood.org/ HelloKitty.

Edited by Glenda Bogar, Red Cross volunteer

NOH volunteer’s island deployment hits home

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By Eilene E. Guy, American Red Cross volunteer

Dan Sutliff’s trip across the Pacific Ocean to Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands in July was no vacation, no opportunity to visit his wife’s relatives there.

As an American Red Cross disaster volunteer, Dan wanted to help bring relief and hope to islanders hit by their third typhoon in as many months: Super Typhoon Bavi.

Brunswick resident and Red Cross volunteer Dan Sutliff traveled to the islands to support the relief response because his wife’s family is from Saipan.

Dan, who lives in Brunswick, Ohio, has been a Red Cross volunteer for a couple of years, primarily responding to home fires, bringing reassurance and resources to folks in their time of need: shelter, food, immediate needs

But his deployment to a disaster 7,000 miles away was different: He arrived just in time to hunker down in Guam as the Category 5 storm skirted the American territory, dumping 15 inches of rain in just 12 hours.

The next day he was able to get a quick flight to the neighboring island of Rota, where Bavi made a direct hit with sustained winds of 180 miles an hour. “Almost every building was affected in some way: roofs blown off, walls collapsed,” he said. Communications and critical infrastructure were demolished.

Dan and three other volunteers from “the states” teamed up with four island Red Crossers (Yes, Guam and the Marianas have their own American Red Cross.) got right to work, interviewing families, asking what they needed, and then working with the local authorities to distribute supplies.

Tarps, coolers, hand sanitizer and wipes are typical after a disaster, but the Red Crossers were able to offer supplies customized to the environment of a hot, humid and “buggy” island: sunscreen, bug repellent, solar lights and fans, mosquito nets, butane stoves, portable showers and meal kits tailored to local diets.

“One of our team had lived on Rota,” Dan said. “That local knowledge was critical” to coordinating with local authorities and finding resources – like a place to live, a generator to provide electricity, a vehicle – to be able to do their work.

Dan and his team supported the two shelters on the island. “The steady state population was about 70 in the Center for Aging and about 25 at the high school. There had been more,” while Bavi hovered over the island, he said. They did what they could to make their “guests” comfortable. For example, they used folding cafeteria tables as dividers to give families a bit of privacy.

Dan came away from his first national disaster impressed by how quickly the Red Cross can mobilize relief, even halfway around the world, and how important it is for responders themselves to be flexible, dealing with whatever situation presents itself. Travel hiccups, no big deal; accommodations with no power and, initially, no water. “It was sufficient,” was his attitude.

At the same time, Dan was impressed with the islanders’ resilience. “Some of them had lost everything,” he said, “but their attitude was, ‘We’ll be able to recover’.”

Red Cross volunteers approach home that suffered major damage from Typhoon Bavi that hit the Mariana Islands back in July 2026. It was the third major storm to hit the islands in as many months.

By the way, Dan took the opportunity to Facetime with his wife, Linda’s, uncle on the nearby island of Saipan while he was in the “vicinity.” Everyone in that family is fine after the storm, he said. And the Red Cross was there too.

Would you like to be able to help people – around the corner or around the world – prevent, prepare for or recover from disasters? “The Red Cross makes on-boarding easy,” Dan noted. Go to redcross.org to learn about the many ways to volunteer. (And no, you don’t have to travel far from home to make an impact!)

All the Red Cross disaster relief is free, provided by the generosity of the American people. To support this vital work, donate through redcross.org or 1-800-REDCROSS.

Smart steps for a safe school year

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By Kathryn Dean, American Red Cross volunteer

Another summer has flown by, and back-to-school is just around the corner!  The American Red Cross wants you and your children to stay safe this school year and has compiled this essential back-to-school safety list.

Walking, Biking, and Bus Safety

  • Stay Visible:  As the days shorten and winter approaches, low light and poor weather can reduce visibility for oncoming traffic.  Grey, black, and dark colored outer wear can make students walking or biking to school blend into an already muted background. 
    • Wear brightly colored clothing or outerwear.
    • Ensure backpacks, bikes, and jackets are equipped with reflective material.
    • Travel with a buddy or group to stand out more easily.
    • At the bus stop, stand back from the road at least five giant steps (about 10 ft).
  • Use Crossing Guards and Sidewalks:
    • Plan your route to school to utilize sidewalks and crossing guards whenever possible.
    • Always wait for the crossing guard’s all-clear signal before attempting to cross.
    • Only cross the road at intersections; never shortcut across the middle of a street or between parked cars.
  • Stay Safe around the School Building:
    • Watch for buses and cars picking up and dropping off students.  Never cross in front of a vehicle until you have made eye contact with the driver and they have signaled for you to go.
    • Wear a bike helmet and secure your bicycle at an approved rack.

In Case of Emergency

  • Memorize Important Contact Information:
    • Students should memorize their address and at least one emergency contact’s name and phone number.
    • If the child is young or has difficulty remembering, place their name and contact information clearly inside their backpack.
  • Children with Medical Concerns:
    • Students with serious medical conditions (such as diabetes, epilepsy, or severe allergies) should carry a laminated emergency card in their backpack detailing their name, medical condition, contact info, and basic care instructions. 
    • A brightly colored medical tag clipped to the backpack or medical alert bracelet can quickly inform bystanders.  Smartphones and smartwatches can also be set up with medical alert lock screens.
    • Diabetic students should always carry a fast-acting glucose supplement with them (such as tablets, gels, or juice) in case of low blood sugar.
    • Ensure school administrators and nurses are aware of medical conditions and keep current instructions and medications on file with the office or clinic.

Take an American Red Cross Class

Emergencies can happen anywhere.  Parents, teachers, and students can gain confidence by taking an American Red Cross course to learn how to handle critical situations. 

  • Babysitting Basics: Designed for students ages 11 and up who want to learn essential childcare skills and practice handling common emergencies.   
  • Lifeguard Training: Students aged 15 years and older can earn certification to work as a lifeguard.  Certifications are valid for two years after completion.
  • CPR & First Aid – Open to both adults and students looking to master basic first aid and CPR for both home and at school.

To sign up for a course near you, visit redcross.org/take-a-class.

Northern Ohio Tiffany Circle members trace Clara Barton’s footsteps at first Red Cross chapter

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By Eilene Guy, American Red Cross volunteer

Clara Barton, founder of the American Red Cross, was known for many things, among them her outstanding leadership skills.

To this day, her Red Cross cultivates leadership across its paid and volunteer staff as well as among its supporters.

The Tiffany Circle is one example of that leadership. Members of Tiffany Circles across the country, all women, provide significant financial support to the Red Cross, deepen their understanding of Red Cross services and impact, and spearhead mission-related activities.

Recently, members of the Northern Ohio Tiffany Circle visited “ground zero” of the Red Cross – Dansville, New York – where Barton established the very first local chapter of her fledgling organization on Aug. 22, 1881.

“It was like taking a step back 145 years, to walk through the lovely house where Clara Barton launched her first disaster relief operation,” said Jill Patterson, Red Cross liaison to the Northern Ohio Circle. “In September 1881, Clara appealed to the public for money and clothes for thousands of people left homeless by wildfires in Michigan.

“The little town of Dansville in western New York is obviously proud to be the site of the very first local chapter in what has become a nationwide organization.”

Tiffany Circle members from northern Ohio and western New York enjoyed a guided tour and luncheon in the recently-restored home – now designated a National Historic Site by the National Park Service – followed by a walking tour of the community that backed Clara’s humanitarian vision.

They also heard from Tiffany Circle members Patricia Horvath and Kathy Coleman. They shared their experiences with the Clara Barton Competition, which focuses on international humanitarian law, and the Clara Barton Study Tours, which connect the organization’s rich history with present-day volunteerism and leadership.

The trip was particularly significant for Northern Ohio Tiffany Circle member Noelle Sayles, and her husband, Nick Noyes, a relative of Clara’s friend Emma Noyes, whose family donated the house to the Red Cross in 1949.

“Together, the day honored Clara Barton’s legacy while strengthening our shared commitment to the Red Cross mission, ‘to prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors’,” Jill said.

If you’re interested in more information about the Northern Ohio Tiffany Circle, you can reach Jill Patterson at 330-618-0523.

Or, if you’d like to find out more about the many humanitarian services of the Red Cross and its leadership opportunities, go to redcross.org.

Young professionals take a deep dive into the Red Cross mission

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By Kathryn Dean, American Red Cross volunteer

‘The American Red Cross prevents and alleviates human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors.’ — Mission statement of the American Red Cross

Young Professionals Council (YPC) is an American Red Cross program that encourages professional individuals between the ages of 25-35 to utilize their talents and skills through employment or volunteerism with the Red Cross in order to advance the Red Cross mission.  Through this program, members have the potential to network and achieve other career-building opportunities, all while building their resume and serving a good cause.

From Left to Right:  Allison Rowe, Steven Siemborski, Preston Morman, Andrew Bales, Dr. Christine Schmotzer, Kevin Rainwater, Ashley Thomas, Megan Winans, Ryan Sowers

One local member putting this into practice is Megan Winans, Regional Philanthropy Officer and Red Cross employee.  Recently she shared her story of collaborating with other YPC members to ‘touch the mission’ of the Red Cross by touring a Red Cross blood bank facility.

“I joined members of our Young Professionals Council for a special touch the mission event where we visited with Dr. Christine Schmotzer at University Hospitals,” Megan began.  “During our visit,  we learned about the importance of maintaining a steady blood supply and how critical the partnership between University Hospitals and the Red Cross is in ensuring lifesaving blood products are available for every patient who comes through their doors.”

Prior to the group visit, Megan donated blood and toured the Cleveland Manufacturing and Processing Site with colleagues.  The behind-the-scenes look allowed her to observe how the blood was collected, processed, tested, and divided into its final products, before finally reaching its destination at the medical system where it can be used to save lives.  Afterwards, she reflected on the combined experiences.

“Seeing the final step in the blood donation journey was a powerful reminder that every person along the way is a critical piece of the puzzle and that just one donation can make a real difference in someone’s life,” she said.

“I truly feel inspired and proud to be part of a community that comes together every single day to help one another. From donors to Red Cross volunteers and staff to the healthcare professionals caring for patients in need, each plays a vital role in delivering hope, help, and lifesaving care when it matters most. That’s the power of community, and it’s what makes our mission possible.”

To learn more about the Young Professionals program and getting involved, click the link HERE.  The Red Cross is currently experiencing a severe blood shortage and needs your help.  Schedule your appointment to donate blood by using the Blood Donor App, visiting www.redcrossblood.org, or calling 1-800-REDCROSS. 

Celebrating the heart of the mission: Northern Ohio Red Cross honors its volunteers

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By Kathryn Dean, American Red Cross volunteer

Northern Ohio has many dedicated volunteers who serve the American Red Cross in various ways.  Making up approximately 90% of its workforce, the Red Cross truly relies on the support of its volunteers to run.  Since National Volunteer Week occurred in late April of this year, several events have taken place across the region recognizing the impact that they make on a daily basis.

Volunteer Engagement Specialist Kelsey Jeffery handing off an award to one of our hardworking volunteers in our Heartland, Stark and Muskingum Lakes chapter.

“Our volunteers generously give their time and talents to the Red Cross, and we want to recognize them and celebrate all their hard work,” said Kelsey Jeffery, Volunteer Engagement Specialist.

Earlier this month, volunteer Jill Sterling was awarded the Spirit of Excellence Award, recognizing her 10 years of service as a biomed office assistant with the Red Cross.  Susan Gordos, Biomed Volunteer Engagement Specialist, noted the impact that Jill’s service has had at the Red Cross. 

Jill Sterling receiving the Spirit of Excellence Award for her service to the Red Cross mission.

“(Jill) conducts phone calls to past donors, provides information about upcoming drives, and encourages continued participation. Her communication is both professional and compassionate, ensuring donors feel valued and informed,”  Susan noted.  “By fostering strong relationships with the community and promoting consistent donor engagement, Jill contributes significantly to maintaining a reliable blood supply and advancing the Red Cross mission.”

Susan estimated that over the course of her volunteer work, Jill has made over 12,000 outreach calls to potential blood donors.  Dedicated volunteers like this are the reason why the American Red Cross continues to thrive 145 years after its inception.

Volunteer Recruitment Specialist Katie Bensinger handing out raffle prizes at the volunteer recognition event in the Greater Akron and Mahoning Valley chapter.

Katie Bensinger, Volunteer Recruitment Specialist, had this to say about her time spent working with volunteers: “My first three months with the Red Cross have been filled with so many meaningful interactions with our volunteers. The three Recognition and Appreciation events I was able to attend were filled with those meaningful moments,” Katie said.  “ I was able to hear so many of our volunteers’ Red Cross stories and the impact our organization has had on their lives and their communities. The volunteers’ commitment to the mission and the thousands of hours of their time that they give inspire me every day.”

Volunteers are always needed!  With dozens of different roles to explore, there is truly something for everyone.  To learn more about the Northern Ohio Region of the Red Cross, including upcoming events and volunteer opportunities, click HERE.

World Sickle Cell Day: The importance of a diverse blood supply

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By Akash Mallady, Red Cross volunteer

More than 100,000 people in the United States live with sickle cell anemia, an inherited blood disease where red blood cells take on a different shape that leads to complications. They become rigid and characteristically crescent-shaped instead of the typical soft, round structure. The misshapen cells carry less oxygen and get stuck in blood vessels, which can leave patients feeling immense pain episodes and the potential for a stroke. While many see blood transfusions as an option during an emergency, they are a normal and necessary part of life for those managing sickle cell from childhood to adulthood. 

Sickle Cell Warrior Alijah Ellis speaking on a panel at the 2026 Sickle Cell Brunch at the American Red Cross of Northern Ohio headquarters in Cleveland.

Research has shown that sickle cell disease affects the US population in a disproportionate way. More than 90% of people with sickle cell disease in the United States are Black or African American, and 3%-9% are Hispanic or Latino. According to the CDC, people with sickle cell disease have a life expectancy that is 20 years shorter than average. 

Maintaining an adequate blood supply, particularly from diverse donors, is one way the American Red Cross is working to combat this. 

Blood donor diversity matters for sickle cells because blood compatibility can go deeper than just blood type. Red blood cells carry antigens, which are proteins on their surface. A patient can receive a safer and more effective transfusion if it comes from a donor whose antigen profile matches more closely. Often sickle cell patients can receive frequent transfusions of mismatched blood, and their immune system can create antibodies against these mismatched antigens. This increases the complexity of finding matches for in future transfusions. Ultimately, similar ethnic backgrounds are more likely to have a shared antigen profile, making representation in the donor population a clinical necessity. 

Current data makes the urgency clear. The communities that are most likely to produce compatible matches for most sickle cell patients continue to remain underrepresented in the blood donor pool. Compared to the White donor population being 80.2%, Black and African American donors comprise just 3.8%, Hispanic or Latino donors 6.6%, and Asian donors 3.4%. 

Sickle Cell Warrior Makenzie Nance and her mother, Demeatrice.

There have been hopeful changes, however. Since 2021, Black or African American blood donors have increased by 37.6%, with Hispanic or Latino donors up 8.5%, and Asian donors up 7.8%. The Red Cross Sickle Cell initiative has been paramount in this increase by providing more than 300,000 sickle cell trait screenings to donors self-identifying as Black, or multiracial. The Red Cross HBCU Ambassador Program has collected over 7,300 pints of blood from 320 campus drives. 

Still, with only 3% of the U.S. population donating blood each year, the donor pool for sickle cell patients of diverse ethnic backgrounds remains low. If you come from an underrepresented background in the donor pool, your donation can provide support to patients who need it most. 

Schedule a donation or share this post  – –  both can make a huge difference. 

Visit RedCrossBlood.org, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, or call 1-800-RED CROSS to find a drive near you .