Media Video Tool Kit Available Here
Federal and local law enforcement officials from Florida who have recovered from COVID-19, have individually partnered with OneBlood, the not-for-profit blood center serving Florida and much of the Southeastern United States, to donate convalescent plasma and share their personal experiences about blood and plasma donations, learning along the way the continued need for blood donations.
Speaking at a virtual news conference, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Florida Lawrence Keefe, Jacksonville FBI Special Agent in Charge Rachel Rojas, and Leon County Sheriff’s Deputy Paul Salvo shared their personal COVID-19 stories, and the inspiration for their commitment to helping others who are battling the coronavirus disease.
“Donating convalescent plasma is one way I can help others on their road to recovery. We’re all in this global pandemic together and the more opportunities we each choose to help one another, the better off we’ll all be,” said U.S. Attorney Keefe.
“Being a survivor of COVID-19 and knowing how this disease is taking people’s lives and how plasma can help save a life, I really do feel it’s important to step up and help the community by donating my plasma,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Rachel Rojas.
“I have donated convalescent plasma twice and will continue to donate each time I am eligible. I know it can help people. I can save lives. So that’s definitely something that I’m wanting to do for my community and other people,” said Leon County Deputy Paul Salvo.
OneBlood is actively collecting and distributing convalescent plasma seven days a week throughout its service area. In addition to convalescent plasma donations, there is also an increased need for blood donations.
“The pandemic has indefinitely disrupted our traditional model for collecting blood. A sustained donor response is needed. We encourage people to donate blood every time they are eligible and this will help ensure a ready blood supply at all times. Donating blood is an easy way to make a positive impact on your community,” said Forbes.
The virtual news event also featured Dr. William Geers, Hospitalist Department Chair for Capital Regional Medical Center, and Dr. Mark Wheeler with Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare, who stressed the vital role convalescent plasma donors and blood donors have in saving lives at every hospital throughout the nation.
To access a media tool kit with video of the officials donating as well as interviews please click here.
