“I’m giving back to my community.”

On September 11, 2001, Andrea Cortez joined a long line of San Antonians at South Texas Blood & Tissue Center looking to help those injured in the terrorist attacks.

Afterwards, Andrea got to thinking about what she did. Although is was important to give on September 11th, she realized that the community needs blood year-round to help hospital patients. Andrea knew she could continue to help others through the simple act of becoming a blood donor.

Since then, Andrea has become a regular donor. She added donating platelets to her routine, as well. “They tell me every time I give platelets, it goes to someone who has a blood disease, like leukemia patients,” Andrea said. “The donation process only takes about 90 minutes and they give you movies to watch while you’re donating. I know I’m giving back to my community.”

Andrea shares her positive experience with others in the hopes of recruiting new donors.