Posted on 06/03/2005 1:04:37 AM PDT by kingattax
EDMONTON -- Russell Mulawka started giving blood 53 years ago, and he just recently made his last donation.
Over that time he gave blood 601 times, and giving an average of 500 millilitres per time.
That adds up to 300 litres, which is enough of his RH positive blood to fill two bathtubs or drain the average human body about 60 times.
Now 71, he has never had a transfusion himself, and neither have members of his immediate family, but "I'm hoping that maybe it did a miracle for somebody."
He started giving blood when he was 18 and in basic training for the air force at Aylmer, Ont. The Red Cross had come though, seeking donations, and he heeded the call.
He never stopped giving blood, until recently, when he decided that 601 times was enough. There was an age limit of 70 for giving blood, although that limit has been relaxed.
"I feel that the most precious thing in life is your family and the second most precious thing is good health," said Mulawka, a retired locomotive engineer.
"I was hoping that because I've been blessed with good health that maybe I could help somebody so they could have a better life. "
"It didn't cost me anything and it didn't hurt."
In fact, the nurses have told him that his veins are still in fine shape despite the great number of times they have been pricked.
Mulawka, was among 542 Albertans who have achieved various milestones in giving blood from 50 to 600 times, many of whom were honoured Sunday at a ceremony put on by Canadian Blood Services.
These Albertans have collectively made more than 46,000 donations over the years, theoretically helping to save the lives of as many as 140,000 people.
Andrew Laycock, spokesman for Canadian Blood Services, said this is a crucial time of the year when hospitals start reporting blood shortages.
"At this time of year, with the start of the nice weather, people think about getting out of town," he said. "With more accidents there are going to be higher demands on the system."
At the same time, people are busier and not donating blood as often, and most students are gone for the summer from the University of Alberta, which has traditionally been a significant source for the local blood supply.
Laycock said he is amazed at the level of commitment by people like Mulawka.
"The older donors do a great job for us in encouraging others to give a donation and to increase their frequency," he said.
"We can't thank him enough for being the ambassador he has been."
The frequency of donations depend on what blood products people give. Those who donate whole blood cannot give more than once in 56 days, but the time between donations goes down to a week for those giving plasma, and twice a week for those giving platelets.
msadava@thejournal.canwest.com
CREDIT: Chris Schwarz, the Journal Russell Mulawka, 71, has donated blood 601 times. He is one of 542 Albertans who have achieved various personal donation milestones
Great story!
What a fine man.
An example of giving, for us all.
Interesting but it wouldn't be surprising if much of that blood went to waste much like the glut of donations after 9/11.
We're not worthy! We're not worthy!
I used to be a regular donor. I have been unable to do it for some time now. I got my 6 gallon pin, but I bow to this guy!
Thanks!!!!!!!!
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