AUG 15, 2014
An estimated 38 percent of the nation’s population is eligible to donate blood, yet only 10 percent do so each year, according to the American Red Cross. The importance of blood donations might be best understood by those whose survival once depended on generous donors.
Adam Munds, a 13-year-old from the small town of Tolono in Champaign County, was born premature with a dangerously low platelet count, which are cells that clot together to stop bleeding. As an infant, Munds was entirely dependent on blood transfusions, and with the help of donors, he was able to grow up healthy.
Now, Munds has set out to help others by raising awareness, money and blood.
In 2011, Munds coordinated his first remote control car event, called RC Fest, to underscore the importance of blood drives. A year later, Munds started hosting them at the event, with all proceeds given to a local blood bank.
Munds’ efforts earned him statewide recognition.
The Illinois Coalition of Community Blood Centers (ICCBC) awarded him “Most Innovative Blood Drive Coordinator” for 2014. State Rep. Adam Brown, R-Peoria, sponsored House Resolution 1227, which officially honors Mends for his work, along with a Senate Congratulatory Resolution from Republican state Sen. Chapin Rose of Mahomet.
“What impressed the judges most about Adam was all that he has achieved for such a young age through his enthusiasm and unwavering commitment to blood donation. The ICCBC felt Adam was this year’s hands down winner,” said ICCBC Government Affairs Director Margaret Vaughn, according to The Rock River Times.
As for Munds, he’s just happy to be giving back.
“I feel that it is nice to get recognition because I needed platelets when I was born, and now I do an event to help other people,” Munds said.
Munds mission to raise awareness and encourage people to take action over a crucial issue is a prime example of an Illinoisan making a difference. Here at Reboot Illinois, we strive to do the same by providing citizens with the information and the tools they need to make a positive difference.
Check out this video from RC Fest and what Munds, donors and medical experts had to say about the life-saving value of blood donations.
The American Red Cross’s website has some interesting facts and statistics about blood needs, supplies and donors in the country.
NEXT ARTICLE: At fairs, it’s all about the food! What’s your favorite?
[RECOMMENDED]
- Cartoon: Rahm Emanuel vs. Karen Lewis a cartoonist’s dream
- Public pensions grow closer to salaries; local funds in crisis: Only in Illinois
- Here’s how Illinoisans rank their overall well-being.
- Infographic: 32 business services would start paying Illinois’ sales tax under Rauner’s fiscal plan.
- Why we fight for FOIA and transparency and you should, too.
Kevin Hoffman is a Reboot Illinois staff writer who graduated from the University of Iowa with a degree in journalism, political science and international studies. He believes keeping citizens informed and politicians in check is the best way to improve Illinois and bring about common sense reform. Follow us on Facebook.