Uniting to Donate Blood

In another good news story of communities pulling together to help others in need, thousands within the Jewish communities of New York and New Jersey have donated blood plasma.

Public health data suggests that COVID-19 may affect the Jewish community at a higher rate than other ethnic groups. ⁠

That is why Dr. Michael Joyner from the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, reached out to Orthodox Jewish leaders from Lakewood, New Jersey. He needed blood from those who had survived COVID-19 for plasma research.⁠

Rabbis quickly organized local communities and many volunteered. ⁠

Scientists first tested the blood to see if they had antibodies to fight the virus. The blood was then loaded into a plane and flown to the Mayo clinic. It turns out that around 60% of the first 1,000 samples contained the potentially lifesaving antibodies. ⁠

Thousands have donated blood plasma since then and just half of the initial supply was used to help around 34,000 people. ⁠

More everyday heroes:

• Everyday Hero: Ordinary people doing extraordinary things during lockdown. Greg Dailey of New Jersey is just one of many. His is an inspiring, heart-warming story.

• Humble Hero: How a humble Tennessee scientist became a worldwide hero during the coronavirus pandemic.

• Another Everyday Hero: Window cleaner in the east of England helping firms 'bounce back' by turning up unannounced and cleaning their windows and signs for free - so the shops can look in tip top condition as lockdown eases.