Donating blood is an incredible act—gives the gift of life.
This January, as we celebrate National Blood Donor Month, we reflect on the incredible impact that blood donors have on their communities. Every day, individuals like Jeff make the life-saving decision to donate blood, transforming lives and offering a gift that is nothing short of extraordinary—the gift of life.
Jeff’s journey of giving began in 1991 when he discovered he was a perfect blood match for his 6-year-old neighbor, Carly, who had been born with a hole in her heart. Today, Carly is 30 years old, living a full life in El Cajon, thanks in no small part to Jeff’s generosity. His act of service didn’t stop there. In December of last year, Jeff reached his incredible 30-gallon milestone at East County Donor Center.
Carly joined Jeff in his celebration and reflected on Jeff’s life-changing gift, “I’m so honored to watch Jeff reach his 30th gallon,” she says. “He’s become like a second father to me, and the bond we share is something I don’t have with anyone else.” Carly’s gratitude underscores the incredible ripple effect of Jeff’s decision to donate blood—a choice that saved her life and has continued to inspire him to give and give often—for decades.
For Jeff, the drive to donate is rooted in the deep connection he feels to those he helps. “When I get an email from the blood bank saying my blood was delivered to a hospital for a patient, it renews my drive for donating,” he shares. “It’s a reminder that my donation is making a real difference.” His journey as a donor hasn’t just been about giving once—it’s about consistently returning to make an impact, driving from Arizona to San Diego, month after month, year after year.
Jeff has donated a variety of blood products over the years, from whole blood to plasma, and he’s now a dedicated platelet donor. This level of commitment is rare, and it highlights the selflessness that many blood donors like him embody. Giving for others is special. It is love and kindness. Congratulations to Jeff on 30 Gallons and for inspiring us through your dedication to helping others.
Jeff’s story is also a call to action for all of us. National Blood Donor Month is not just a time to celebrate those who donate regularly; it’s also an opportunity for new donors to start their own journey of giving back.
Every donation counts. A single blood donation has the potential to help save up to three lives. Jeff’s story reminds us that blood donation isn’t just about the act itself—it’s about the lasting impact we can have on our families, our communities, and neighbors like Carly
We want to encourage more individuals in our community to take that first step and become a regular blood donor in 2025. Your decision to give is a vital part of a life-saving system of hope and healing.
Donating blood offers a chance to become part of a larger movement of people who are committed to saving lives. It’s a reminder that even the smallest act of kindness can have a huge impact, and by making blood donation a habit, you can be part of something bigger than yourself.
How You Can Get Involved
This National Blood Donor Month, we encourage you to start your own life-saving journey. Whether it’s your first time donating or you’re looking to donate more regularly, there are plenty of ways to get involved.
There is a San Diego Blood Bank center within 10 miles of just about anyone in San Diego. When you make blood donation part of your routine, you’re able to monitor your own health and be a part of a community of heroes who are making an incredible difference every day.
Jeff’s 30-gallon milestone is an inspiration to us all. His dedication to serving others reminds us that small, consistent actions can lead to life-changing results. So, this month, honor the legacy of all blood donors by becoming one yourself. Together, we can ensure that life-saving blood is always available for those who need it most.
CONTENT UPDATED: APRIL 29, 2025—This blog content was updated with corrections on 4/29/2025: Previously Jeff Mandel’s name was incorrectly listed in some areas as Jay. We sincerely apologize for this error.
