During Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 - October 15), I’ve been thinking about how we can honor the values that make our community strong—familia, resiliencia, and solidaridad. For me, one of the most meaningful ways to give back is by giving blood.

Why I Chose to Donate Blood

I’ve now donated more than three gallons of O-positive blood through OneBlood. And every single time I do, I think about my sister.

Years ago, during her pregnancy with her second child, complications sent her to the hospital more than once. Each time, she required a blood transfusion to stabilize her and protect her unborn baby. Watching someone I love rely on the generosity of strangers was both terrifying and eye-opening. That experience changed me. It made blood donation personal.

The Need for Hispanic Blood Donors

Since then, I’ve made it a regular part of my life. And here’s what I’ve learned: while Hispanics represent a growing percentage of the U.S. population, fewer than 5% of us donate blood. That’s a sobering statistic, especially when you consider that the majority of Hispanic individuals are Type O, the most requested blood type in emergencies. 

While O-negative is the universal donor, O-positive, my blood type, is far more common and just as critical in trauma situations, particularly for patients who share the same blood type. It’s not just helpful…it’s essential.

Make a Difference During Hispanic Heritage Month

This Hispanic Heritage Month, I want to encourage my fellow Latinos to consider donating blood. It's a simple act that can literally save lives. It’s also a powerful expression of who we are: people who lift each other up, who show up for our families and our neighbors in times of need.

If you’ve never given before, now is the perfect time to start. Your donation could be someone’s second chance. It might even be the reason another family gets to stay whole—just like mine did.

¡Sí se puede! (Yes, we can!) 

Let’s show our heritage in action. Let’s give blood.

Find a OneBlood Donor Center or Big Red Bus near you today.