Celebrating the everyday heroes among us

Lisa Smith

Every now and then, an unselfish and extraordinary action on behalf of a neighbor, a co-worker or even a stranger can change another person's destiny and, at the same time, our own. In an instant, real people become real heroes! The American Red Cross knows a lot about heroes. Our founder, Clara Barton, risked her life bringing supplies and providing nursing care to soldiers during the Civil War. These activities defined her life and earned her the nickname “Angel on the Battlefield.” In 1881 Clara founded the American Red Cross, with a mission to alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors. She served as Red Cross president for 23 years. Her legacy lives on, reflected in the spirit of Red Cross volunteers and employees, bringing help and hope to people in need in our community, across this nation and around the world.

Every year the Red Cross honors people who turn compassion into action by helping others in times of crisis. Our 23rd Annual Real Heroes Breakfast was held virtually in January. A few of our honorees included Kaley Taggart who, while driving, noticed a woman perched on the edge of an overpass along a busy stretch of highway. Kaley stopped, talked to the distraught woman, pulled her off the overpass and saved her life. Mady Alcock who at 15 years old was babysitting a six-month-old who stopped breathing. As the infant’s lips began to turn blue, Mady administered CPR. The training she received saved the baby’s life.

Danielle Lowe calls herself an average country girl, but her dedication as a blood donor is extraordinary. Danielle has donated over nine gallons of blood in her lifetime. She was only 10 years old when she needed a blood transfusion for an emergency surgery and now, as a grateful adult, she dedicates an hour of her time every eight weeks to share the gift of life with others. Little Emma Wells, at 5 years old, jumped into action when her mother had a seizure, calling her grandmother who called 911. Her mom has since recovered and calls Emma her little hero. The five-year-old says she’d like to find a way to help more people when she grows up!

These are just a few examples of the extraordinary women and young girls who live in our community. Our heroes are many and not always apparent. People who selflessly help others, show compassion for those who have less, make time to be kind and are brave enough to stand up for those who can’t stand for themselves. These heroes change lives and enrich our community. They deserve to be celebrated.

As executive director of the Central and Northern New York Chapter, I am fortunate to be surrounded by heroes and to witness their extraordinary contributions every day. Ninety percent of the Red Cross workforce are volunteers. Locally, about 700 volunteers provide essential programs and services throughout our community. In the past year they responded to 300 local disasters, providing relief to 542 families impacted by home fires and other emergencies; trained 13,000 people in first aid, CPR, water safety, babysitting and other lifesaving skills; provided more than 4,800 case services to aid veterans, service members and their families; and collected 54,000 units of blood to support patients in need.

Let’s all take some time to celebrate the heroes in our lives and if you are willing to share your talents to help when heroes are needed, send us a note at joineny@redcross.org. SWM

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