Tag Archives: Northern Ohio

Turkey day hazards: Don’t let your holiday meal go up in smoke

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By Kathryn Dean, American Red Cross volunteer

Juicy, flavorful, and tender meat.  Crispy, golden-brown skin.  For a perfect holiday centerpiece that cooks in under an hour, the deep-fried turkey seemed like a miracle.  If you lived through the 1990s, you probably remember the phenomenon that spread through the country like wildfire. 

Triggered in part by Martha Stewart featuring this Cajun method of cooking on her television show and in her magazine, it sparked a craze amongst Americans who were looking for easier ways to cook their Thanksgiving turkeys. 

Unfortunately, this method came with a steep price.  An increase in fires and injuries resulted from improper use of this technique, and many homes burned down as a result.  If you’ve never seen a video of a turkey fryer quickly going up in flames, do yourself a favor and Google it now. 

But the danger isn’t limited to outdoor frying.  In the United States, Thanksgiving Day and the day before are the top two most likely days for cooking fires to happen in the home.  44% of all house fires in the U.S. can be attributed to cooking fires, making it the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries.

COOKING SAFETY TIPS: The American Red Cross recommends these cooking safety tips to reduce your risk of fire during this holiday season.

  • Never leave the kitchen unattended when frying, grilling, or broiling food.
  • Keep grills or deep fat fryers at least 10 feet away from home structures while in use.
  • If you are using a turkey fryer, remember that proper safety requires a completely thawed turkey and oil that is at the correct temperature and level.
  • Set a kitchen timer to remind you when the stove is on.
  • Keep children and pets at least three feet away from all cooking appliances and cords.
  • Remove flammable items, like wooden utensils, curtains, potholders, and oven mitts, from the vicinity of the stovetop.
  • Pull up sleeves and avoid loose clothing that can get in the way while cooking.
  • Keep a fire extinguisher near any area where cooking is being performed.  Do not use water to put out a grease fire.
  • Check that all appliances are off before going to bed at night.

Fall is a great time to check that you have working smoke detectors in your home. Test your units monthly, and replace batteries annually (on units that allow you to do so).  Replace any units that are over 10 years old.  If you need help replacing or installing smoke detectors, the Red Cross may be able to help. Click here to find out how to request a free smoke alarm in Northern Ohio. Wishing everyone a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Autumn Elegance Women’s Forum highlights impact of women in philanthropy across Northern Ohio

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By Jill Patterson, senior regional philanthropy officer, Tiffany Circle division lead

Earlier this month, the Barrington Country Club in Aurora was filled with warmth, inspiration, and the unmistakable energy of women coming together to create lasting change. The first-ever American Red Cross Women in Philanthropy event, Autumn Elegance Women’s Forum, was more than just an evening gathering. It was a celebration of connection, purpose, and the collective strength of women united by a mission that matters.

The event was hosted by members of the Red Cross of Northern Ohio Tiffany Circle and is part of the organization’s Women in Philanthropy initiative. This elegant forum brought together a dynamic community of women leaders and changemakers to celebrate the transformative power of giving and the profound impact of women in philanthropy. The event welcomed an extraordinary mix of Tiffany Circle members, major donors, business leaders and passionate supporters, all committed to advancing the mission of the Red Cross. Laurie Laidlaw Deacon, Red Cross of Northern Ohio Tiffany Circle chair, led us through the evening as guests were treated to heartfelt stories, meaningful conversations and a renewed sense of purpose. 

Debra Haufler, executive director of strategic planning, real estate services for the Red Cross shared a deeply moving mission moment, recounting her daughter’s journey with leukemia and the critical role Red Cross blood played in her treatment. Her story reminded everyone of the lifesaving impact behind every donation.

Anne McKeough, Red Cross chief development officer, introduced the Women in Philanthropy initiative, emphasizing its importance in empowering women to lead, influence, and champion change through strategic giving and community engagement.                             

Co-chair of the Red Cross Tiffany Circle National council Marilyn McClure-Demers closed the evening with a powerful call to action, inviting each guest to join us on this journey—to lend their voice, their passion and their leadership to a cause that touches lives every day.

The evening was a testament to what happens when women come together with intention. We left feeling inspired, connected, and more deeply committed to building a future shaped by compassion, generosity, and purpose.

From heartfelt conversations to powerful reflections, the event reminded us of the impact we can make when we lead with compassion and purpose. It marked the beginning of a journey—one where women’s voices, leadership, and generosity shape the future of philanthropy.

Thank you to everyone who joined us. Your presence, passion, and belief in our mission made this night unforgettable.

To see more photos from the Autumn Elegance Women’s Forum, tap here.

Red Cross staff detects health issue in longtime blood donor during routine check in

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By Sam Pudelski, American Red Cross volunteer

Peggy Hammond has donated blood for over 40 years. As someone with O+ blood, she understands the importance of giving blood. She started giving blood after a friend had a daughter diagnosed with Apert syndrome and needed regular blood infusions. She realized how extremely important it was to donate blood to help people like her friend’s daughter, who rely on blood donations.

Fast forward a few years, and Peggy was at the American Red Cross Michael T. George Blood Donation Center checking in for her routine blood donation. When she was signing in, the nurse noticed a sore on her head and told Peggy, “I think it’s infected.” The supervisor confirmed it was, and Peggy wasn’t able to donate that day. Over Christmas, she contacted her doctor and after sending a picture of the spot in question, she went in to have it evaluated.

Her doctor determined the sore was not just an irritated spot on the head, but was in fact skin cancer, specifically squamous carcinoma. Approximately 2 out of every 10 skin cancers are squamous cell skin cancers, according to the American Cancer Society. Luckily, the cancer was caught early. Peggy had Mohs micrographic surgery to have the cancerous spot removed. The procedure went well, and with the surgical site healed, she was able to resume her regular blood donations.

She returned back to the donation center to begin her regular blood donations again, and of all people volunteering that day, the same nurse who discovered her spot, was there again! “She saved my life,” Peggy said. She was grateful to have the chance to tell her how much her catch that day helped her.

In speaking with Peggy, it’s evident she’s passionate about giving back and grateful that she’s still able to continue to donate to help others in need. If you are interested in donating blood, the Red Cross holds blood drives across Northern Ohio. To find an upcoming blood drive near you, visit redcrossblood.org.

Edited by Glenda Bogar, American Red Cross volunteer

Preparedness starts at home: Urging Northern Ohio residents to prepare for emergencies now

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September is National Preparedness Month, and the American Red Cross Northern Ohio Region is urging everyone to protect their loved ones and their homes by getting ready now.

Most people may not realize it, but the nation’s number one disaster is home fires. On average, the Northern Ohio Region responds to 3 home fires every 24 hours. Last fiscal year, the Red Cross responded to over 1,000 home fires in the region, issuing more than $1.1 million in direct financial assistance to impacted residents. Help your family prepare by testing your smoke alarms each month and practicing your escape.

Red Cross volunteers installing a smoke alarm inside a home in Cleveland.

“National Preparedness Month is a great time to ask whether your family would be ready if something unexpected happened tomorrow,” said Mike Parks, Regional CEO, Red Cross of Northern Ohio. “It’s not about being scared; it’s about being smart and looking out for the people you love. Taking a few simple steps now so that you have a plan can make all the difference when it matters most.”

HOW TO GET READY Disasters don’t wait for the “right time” — they can happen in the middle of the night, during your commute or while your kids are at school. Protect your family by making a plan to stay safe, gathering important supplies and knowing how you’ll stay connected by taking these steps:

  • Depending on the emergency, you may need to stay where you are or go somewhere else to stay safe. If you may need to leave, think about where you’ll go, how you’ll get there, where you’ll stay and what you’ll take with you. Plan well in advance if you’ll need help leaving or use public transportation.
  • Next, gather and organize critical supplies — like food, water and medicine — into a go-kit and a stay-at-home kit. Make sure to include backup batteries and chargers for your devices (cell phone, CPAP, wheelchair, etc.), a battery-powered or hand-crank radio, and critical personal records.
  • Your go-kit should include three days of supplies that you can take with you. Your stay-at-home kit should have two weeks of food and water, and a one-month supply of medications, if possible.
  • Customize your kit to meet your household’s specific needs. If you have young children, don’t forget formula and diapers. If you have pets, include leashes, carriers, food, bowls, litter and a litterbox.
  • Finally, make a plan to reconnect with loved ones if you are separated or if the phone or internet is down. Write down important phone numbers on a contact card and carry it with you.

Download the free Red Cross Emergency app for weather alerts, safety steps for different emergencies and expert advice in both English and Spanish. Don’t forget to sign up for local government emergency alerts to get critical local information — like evacuation notices — during an emergency.

People can also help their community be better prepared for disasters by giving blood, taking a class in lifesaving skills like CPR, or becoming a Red Cross volunteer. Visit redcross.org or call 800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767) to learn more today.

“Whether it’s a fire in someone’s home or a storm that destroys an entire town, disasters can happen anywhere, at any time,” Parks said. “Taking a few minutes now to get ready will help you protect your loved ones if the worst happens.”

Red Cross youth and young adult volunteer roles offer invaluable experience for individuals like Maddie Frank

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By Tim Poe, American Red Cross volunteer

Before American Red Cross Youth Volunteer Maddie Frank arrived for her first shift as Blood Donor Ambassador, she had already recruited a new blood donor, her dad. As Maddie was not yet old enough for her license, her dad drove, deciding to give blood on the way. After her dad downloaded the Blood Donor App, Maddie said, “It was fascinating and fun to watch the blood donation’s progress with him,” culminating in the location where it helped save a life.  

Maddie Frank, Red Cross volunteer

Maddie has been volunteering since January of this year and has already made a tremendous impact. Beginning with Totes for Hope, she has taken on several roles, including Blood Donor Ambassador, Youth Advocate, and Volunteer Services Youth Engagement Lead.  

Red Cross Youth and Young Adult volunteer opportunities and Red Cross Clubs are excellent ways giving people like Maddie can assist their communities, gain tremendous experience, develop leadership and public speaking skills, build resumes, make lasting friendships, and help make the world better.   

There are many Red Cross volunteer opportunities for young people, depending on age. In fact, nationally, as many as 25% of our volunteers are age 24 and younger. For instance, individuals 13 and over can volunteer at blood drives; additional adult supervision is required for those 13-15. Prepare with Pedro presenters can be at least 14. While you must be at least 18 for most disaster relief roles, those ages 16-17 can help support logistics, inventory, and preparation in their region. And young adults (ages 18-24) may be involved in College Red Cross Clubs or hold an adult volunteer position. 

Maddie told me how she has grown up in an atmosphere of helping others and has always enjoyed doing so. Her schools have had service hour requirements, she began working with Totes of Hope for services project at her church, her dad coaches, and her mom helps at a food bank.  

Maddie said she greatly enjoys helping and interacting with people, is looking to become a nurse, and her work as a Red Cross volunteer has helped. Maddie said, “I really enjoy interacting with the donors, seeing their milestones, and working with the other volunteers and staff, as everyone is very kind.” Maddie also said the experience is helping her get a sense of working in a medical field. She has also found several fellow volunteers are studying to become medical professionals, including nurses, and share their experiences. 

In addition to aiding the Red Cross, Maddie has assisted with several programs to help others, is a member of her school’s medical club, enjoys playing basketball, and will soon begin her Junior year at Wash Jesuit High School. 

I asked Maddie what she would tell someone her age interested in becoming a Red Cross volunteer. She said, “Starting out as a blood donor ambassador is really beneficial, as you get to meet people, including those in medical fields, and see what blood drive are like. And you get to see your impact.” 

National Volunteer Week Spotlight: Long-time blood donor ambassador has no plans to slow down

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By Jim McIntyre. American Red Cross volunteer

Carol O’Brien is approaching her 25th anniversary as an American Red Cross Blood Donor Ambassador, a volunteer role she relishes with the same enthusiasm she had when she started her Red Cross career in the year 2000.

Shortly after retiring from her position with an insurance firm, Carol said she decided to donate blood for the first time. That’s how she became familiar with the volunteer Blood Donor Ambassador position.

“It looked like it would be fun to do a couple of times a month,” she said. At one point, Carol was volunteering at up to six blood drives each month, registering donors and helping them through the donation process. “Now, I just work four shifts a month,” she said, with no plans to cut back anytime soon.

Because she volunteers so frequently, Carol said she has learned the names of many repeat blood donors.“ I like to meet people, and it’s easy to pass the time,” she said while staffing the registration table at a recent blood drive in Mayfield Village.

Carol also keeps an eye on the refreshment area, making sure snacks and beverages are available following each donor’s generous gift of blood. To learn more about the Blood Donor Ambassador position, visit here.

Red Cross volunteers are also needed to transport blood donations from blood drives to the biomedical services lab in Cleveland, and from the lab to area hospitals to help patients in need. Visit here to learn more about the opportunity to pick-up and deliver lifesaving blood..

Edited by Glenda Bogar. American Red Cross volunteer

National Volunteer Week Spotlight: Volunteer gives back to Red Cross after it reunited family years ago

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By Kathryn Dean, American Red Cross volunteer

“…and I knew from that point on, even as young as I was…I said to myself, ‘when I’m old, I’m going to volunteer for the Red Cross,” said Linda Consolo of Stow.

A pivotal moment in Linda’s young life changed her trajectory and mindset. At the tender age of 18, just out of high school and newly engaged, her life was turned upside down. Her fiancé was drafted and sent to Vietnam, where he was wounded and sent to a field hospital. When he was well enough for transport and moved to a hospital in Japan, the army reached out to his parents, allowing only them the opportunity to visit. 

Unfortunately, the cost of travel was too much for the family, and they worried if they would ever see their son again. That’s when the American Red Cross stepped in to help. They covered the costs, and his parents were able to spend the last few weeks of his life with him. This was something that Linda never forgot, and she knew one day she would volunteer for the Red Cross.

Now, nearly 55 years later, she is living that reality and has dedicated a large portion of her retirement to volunteering with the Red Cross. She has found her niche in the role of Blood Donor Ambassador, a position that she really enjoys, working sometimes up to four days per week at blood drives.

“It’s my way of giving back to them because they did something special for somebody for me. Because having his parents there for his last month or two was amazing,” she reflected.

Not only does she volunteer at blood drives, but she is also a blood donor. “I’ve given 16 gallons and one pint in my lifetime,” she proudly states. Quite an achievement, considering that eight donations equate to one gallon of blood. 

“I started when I worked at Goodyear,” she explained. “Goodyear always had blood drives, and I started giving blood there because we were allowed to leave our desk and go across the street to Goodyear hall, give blood and have something to eat. We didn’t have to take time off from work. Goodyear made it easy for us to donate blood.”

“Donating blood is probably more important to me than volunteering,” she said, “but I do them in tandem. I do it every 56 days or as close to it as I can.”

Despite her busy schedule, she also finds time to bake for the workers at the blood drives, earning her the affectionate moniker, ‘the muffin lady.’ 

As a retiree, Linda said that she appreciates the opportunity to stay active and social and meet new people. “Now it’s time for me to give back,” she said. “It’s the thing to do. It makes your heart feel good that you’re giving back to the world. I’m doing my part and trying to give my best.”

The Red Cross is always looking for new volunteers. If you would like to learn more about this vital volunteer role or any of the other available opportunities, visit www.redcross.org/noh and click the Volunteer tab or call 1-800-RED CROSS.

Edited by Glenda Bogar, American Red Cross volunteer

Three things pet owners should do this April

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By Samantha Pudelski, American Red Cross volunteer

Every April we recognize Pet Month, a time for pet owners to celebrate the animals they love in their life. The American Red Cross of Northern Ohio shares three ways people can become better caretakers and bond with their pets this month.

Superstorm Sandy 2012

Kaitlyn Miller and her rescue boxer, Coulton taking refuge in a Red Cross shelter.
Photo by Les Stone/American Red Cross

1. Take a Pet First Aid Class

The Red Cross offers an online course to learn how to understand vital signs, preventive care and caring for pets in critical emergency situations. The 35-minute course provides the basics in caring for cats and dogs, including:

  • Checking pet’s vital signs.
  • Conducting preventive care for your pets.
  • Recognizing and providing first aid for the most severe experiences a pet may experience.

Upon completion of the course, you’ll receive a Red Cross digital certification.  Register here.

2. Learn How to Keep Your Pets Safe During a Disaster

East Palestine, Ohio 2023 This resident of East Palestine, Ohio took refuge with her pet in a Red Cross shelter following a train derailment and chemical spill. Photo credit: Jim McIntyre/American Red Cross

In the event of an emergency, be sure to be prepared with everything your loved ones, including your pets, need to evacuate. The Red Cross has put together some tips to help you keep your pets safe in the event of a disaster.

Please note the tips below are mostly for cats and dogs. For more information on disaster planning for other types of pets and livestock, please visit https://www.ready.gov/pets or Humane Society.

  1. Remember, if it isn’t safe for you to stay in your home during an emergency, it’s not safe for your pets either.
  2. Include supplies your pet needs in your emergency kit, including:
    1. Sturdy leashes/harnesses and/or carriers to transport your pets safely.
    1. Food, water, bowls, and a manual can opener if your pets eat canned food.
    1. Cat litter and a pan for feline friends.
    1. A first aid kit.
    1. Copies of medical records and any medications your pets need in a waterproof container.
    1. Current photos of your pets just in case they get lost.
    1. Information on when your pets eat, medical conditions, any behavioral issues and contact information for your veterinarian in case you have to board or foster your pets.
    1. Pet beds and toys, if possible.
  3. Make an evacuation plan for you and your pets.
    1. Many hotels do not accept animals, other than service animals. Make sure you identify places along your route that will accept pets in an emergency.
    1. Some Red Cross shelters cannot accept pets due to health and safety needs. Service animals for people with disabilities are allowed.

For more tips on preparing for your pets in an emergency, visit the Red Cross page for preparing for emergencies.

3. Have a Dog? Join our April Walking Challenge to Support Disaster Relief

Get outside with your furry friend this spring and help support those impacted by disasters. The Red Cross is hosting a 30 Mile Dog Walk Challenge in the month of April. It’s free to join and you can score a collapsible dog bowl for joining.

Visit the Red Cross website to learn how you can sign up.

Diverse blood supply is more important than ever

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By Eilene E. Guy, American Red Cross volunteer

Volunteers are the lifeblood of the American Red Cross. And by extension, volunteers provide lifesaving blood and blood products to millions of people across the nation every year.

This chain of generosity begins at the local level, at an average of 500 blood drives and blood center collections every day. Last year, the Red Cross sent more than 6.3 million blood products to some 2,500 hospitals and other health care facilities.

But in the past two decades, the number of Red Cross blood donors has fallen by about 40%, with a significant drop among those between 16 and 22. As our national population ages and becomes more diverse, building the next generation of donors is critical.  

The University of Akron alumni chapter of Delta Sigma Theta, a sorority of scores of African American women, is helping meet that need by sponsoring blood drives.

Earlier this month, their event netted 30 units of blood, which will go to treat as many as 90 patients.

Drives like these are vital to maintain a stable supply of blood for trauma victims, surgery and cancer patients, fragile newborns and those with medical conditions such as Sickle Cell Disease (SCD). This hereditary condition can be life threatening: It leads to anemia (shortage of red blood cells), causing fatigue, organ damage and periodic severe pain, known as a sickle cell crisis.

Blood transfusions from donors of the same or similar ethnicity and blood type are the most effective way to treat a sickle cell crisis. Since most people with SCD are of African descent, blood from Black donors is the gold standard for treatment. In fact, one in three African American blood donors is a match for a patient with sickle cell disease.

As a northern Ohio district manager for Red Cross blood services, Sabrina Spikes works to recruit and educate a larger, broader base of blood donors, including the Black and African American, Latino and LGBTQ+ communities.

“It’s a testament to the work of Delta Sigma Theta that they sponsor at the University of Akron,” she told me. “We need to have diverse partners, to do more education.”

Education is two-pronged:

  • Reaching more people from all racial and ethnic groups to explain the importance of a diverse blood supply. “We know the number one reason people don’t donate blood is that they haven’t been asked,” she said. “We need to explain why a diverse blood supply is important.”
  • Preparing potential donors to have a successful donation experience, by getting them to drink plenty of water and eat iron-rich foods. “Cutting down on caffeinated beverages that slow the absorption of iron – coffee, tea, sodas – helps cut the deferral rate of donors, especially African American women,” she explained.    

To learn more about why a diverse blood supply is so important, tap here. And, to find where you can donate and to make an appointment, go to redcrossblood.org. Someone needs you!

Donate Blood in March and receive a free A1C screening

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By: Kathryn Dean, American Red Cross volunteer

The American Red Cross of Northern Ohio is helping to bridge access to health care for blood donors by providing free A1C testing, commonly used to screen for diabetes and prediabetes, on all successful blood, platelet and plasma donations in March.

One-third of people lack access to regular primary care in the U.S., where diabetes affects 1 in 10 people and nearly a quarter of those living with it have been undiagnosed, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The free A1C screening aims to help address this gap by empowering blood donors with valuable information to maintain their health and well-being.

What is the hemoglobin A1C test?  This is a common laboratory blood test that doctors use to help diagnose diabetes or prediabetes. Unlike a blood glucose test (or blood sugar test) which provides an instant snapshot of your current blood sugar levels, A1C reflects the average blood sugar levels of an individual over the past 3 months. This gives doctors a better idea of where your blood sugar typically lies, outside of the daily fluctuations.

Why is this important for me? It is estimated that there are over 8.7 million people in the U.S. living with undiagnosed prediabetes or diabetes. Type 2 diabetes accounts for over 90% of all cases and often remains symptomless until damage has been done. Untreated diabetes can lead to plaque build-up in the blood vessels which in turn puts you at greater risk for a stroke or heart attack. The eyes, kidneys, nerves, and skin are particularly vulnerable to the effects of decreased blood flow due to high glucose levels in the blood.  Fortunately, prediabetes is reversible with lifestyle changes, so early detection is key.

Blood donor, Audrey Savage
Photo by Michelle Frankfurter for the American Red Cross

How should I prepare for my donation?  No fasting is required for the A1C test or any other special preparation. Just be sure you are feeling well on the day of donation by getting enough rest, staying hydrated, and eating a well-balanced meal.

When will I get my results? You can expect your results within one to two weeks of your donation. Results will be posted on the Red Cross Donor App or through your donor’s account at RedCrossBlood.org.

What do my results mean?  An A1C test result of 5.7% or above will require follow-up with your primary care physician. Your doctor will be able to diagnose and guide you through an appropriate treatment plan. 

To learn more about the A1C test, pre-diabetes and diabetes, check out this informational page at the Red Cross website HERE. Download the Red Cross Blood Donor App HERE to schedule your next donation and view your donation history and test results.