 Sheila Robinson and the Tiniest Patients
The tiniest patients need blood too. In the picture on the left Sheila holds a tiny pediatric unit of blood in the palm of her hands.
More than three years ago Sheila Robinson joined the Blood Bank of the Redwoods Hospital Services team that ensures our local hospitals have the blood products they need twenty-four hours a day. “On my first day, tears came to my eyes when I saw our inventory of blood for the first time and realized how much life each unit represents!”
Seven days a week, the Hospital Services team processes hospital orders and packs, transports, and rotates blood product inventory. Frequently, emergency calls come in requesting special units be prepared for infants and patients with compromised immune systems.
 Sheila, a mother, grandmother, former teacher and quality assurance auditor, feels a special connection
with children. When a hospital requests tiny pediatric units of type O negative blood for a sick baby, often in the wee hours of the morning, Sheila says that she especially feels honored. “To deliver this precious thing, to be part of a committed team, is a profound experience for me.”
With a warm smile, Sheila admits that she’s rather “hooked.” Her job is the culmination of many hands that have collected, tested and prepared a lifesaving product that can only come from the generous spirit of volunteer donors.
Drawing: Laboratory Fairy
Drawn by Mary Montrose, 6 years old
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