A Universal Hero: How One Woman Found Courage to Give Back Kaitlyn Seiler is facing her fear of needles to regularly give blood at Ochsner Blood Bank By Anne Elder
When COVID-19 swept across New Orleans in 2020, Kaitlyn Seiler was eager to find a way to help. Working in close proximity to first responders in Ochsner’s talent acquisition department, Kaitlyn felt called to support patients herself. Around the same time, she learned that a relative was diagnosed with
made it easier to commit to going into the clinic on a regular basis.” During one of her visits, a phlebotomist even held her hand while they put in the needle. After learning that she is a universal donor with type O positive blood, Kaitlyn became a regular donor. During one visit, she met the relative of a patient in need of a transplant who was asking
make this innovation possible. “I fill out the same forms every single time, and an electronic check-in would make the process so much easier for donors and the amazing phlebotomist who runs the show,” Kaitlyn said. For now, the generous support of blood donors like Kaitlyn helps patients through surgeries, transplants, chemo infusions and more. “Whenever I’m scared or anxious
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Once I trusted the staff would care for me and support me whenever I went in, it made it easier to commit to going into the clinic on a regular basis. — Kaitlyn Seiler
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Photo courtesy of Kaitlyn Seiler
a condition that can require regular blood transfusions. Kaitlyn did the formerly unthinkable: she put her lifelong fear of needles aside and donated blood at Ochsner Blood Bank. All of the blood collected at Ochsner’s donor centers and mobile drives helps patients in Southeast Louisiana, giving Kaitlyn the opportunity to support her friends, neighbors and community. “The staff was so supportive, kind and patient,” she said. “Once I trusted the staff would care for me and support me whenever I went in, it
donors to list her relative about donating, I remember that as the donation recipient. someone in the hospital is having a Kaitlyn obliged. much worse time than me,” she said. “I could see the stress “Because I am grateful and blessed and emotion she was to be healthy and strong, all I need to experiencing through this donate is a little courage.” whole ordeal,” Kaitlyn said. “It made me feel like I was really helping patients, just like I wanted to in the beginning.” For those intimidated to give blood, Kaitlyn recommends eating a big breakfast, staying hydrated and openly discussing any fears with the staff. In the future, an electronic records system that allows donors to give blood multiple times without filling out new forms will expedite the process. The Blood Bank Fund can help Photo: Staci Brimer
To support the many Ochsner patients in need of blood, please scan this code to donate to the Ochsner Blood Bank.
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February/March 2022
