Vinton Smith will cross off his 18th state with a platelet donation at South Texas Blood & Tissue
One man’s mission to inspire others to donate blood has led him across the country to set an example and reach an admirable goal: to donate blood and platelets in all 50 states.
Vinton Smith, a Pennsylvania native, has been a regular blood donor since high school, some 30-something years ago. But it wasn’t until 11 years ago that Smith decided to take on the goal of donating blood in every state.
In 2021, Smith decided he wanted to continue his mission, but with platelet donations, too and continue to inspire others to donate, especially in times of shortage. During January, National Blood Donor Month, Smith’s mission is especially notable as the month stands to recognize the generosity of blood donors.
Smith has donated blood in 46 states and platelets in 17 states. On Jan. 13, Smith will cross “donating platelets in Texas” off his list at the South Texas Blood & Tissue Northeast Donor Center in San Antonio.
