Veteran and platelet donor expands to plasma donation
Brian Savidge, a Navy veteran and long-time platelet donor with the American Red Cross, discovered a new way to make a difference when a friend with primary immunodeficiency (PI), Gwen, asked if he'd ever considered donating plasma. The two met at a YMCA meditation class, and her experience with plasma-derived therapy for her rare disease opened Savidge's eyes to a new form of giving. Gwen receives plasma-based infusions regularly to treat her PI.
"It is so easy to help others who literally get a life-changing gift," said Savidge, reflecting on his plasma donation journey.
Since the beginning of 2022, Savidge has made an impressive commitment to plasma donation, with over 150 donations to his credit. This dedication earned him Platinum level donor status, which is the highest honor for this particular donation center and gives him higher rewards points compensation for each donation. This is a testament to the consistency of his generosity.
Savidge finds great satisfaction in his experience as a plasma donor and enthusiastically encourages others to join the cause. "You get to know the staff and other donors, and it's a nice community to be a part of," Savidge shared, describing the hour or so he spends donating twice a week. While he appreciates the overall experience, Savidge does have one request, "the plasma center does not utilize reservations, it's just show up and get in line." This was the process he was used to from donating platelets at the American Red Cross. Still, the line moves more quickly since the plasma center has about 20 chairs to the American Red Cross’s 6. The donation time itself is also is less than when he was donating platelets, which Savidge said “takes about two hours donation time and are usually a needle in each arm”. Another difference he has experienced between the two forms of donation is the recovery time which is 2-3 days for Plasma and 7 for platelets.
Inspired by his friend and the impact of his donations, Savidge has extended his support beyond the donation chair. He now contributes financially to PI research, specifically supporting Gwen's team at the Immune Deficiency Foundation (IDF) Walk for PI at the Philadelphia Zoo.
After serving in the military for 41 years, Savidge is now retired but continues to serve his community through his plasma donations. His story is an inspiring example of how one person's commitment can make a significant difference in the lives of many.
More Heroes
Find a donation center
Donate blood plasma. Be a hero. Locate a plasma donation center near you.
