The power of giving: Lombard man gives 500th blood donation before Thanksgiving
As we enter the season of gratitude, one Lombard man is a living testament to the power of giving. Mike Goba, a dedicated blood donor, celebrated a remarkable milestone: his 500th donation, a feat that reflects nearly five decades of selfless giving.
“I’ve been donating since I was 18, and it’s just become a part of who I am,” Goba said. “Donations go down during the winter months, so it’s more important than ever to give, give, give! Each donation can help three people, so get in the holiday spirit and donate. It’s the season of giving, after all.”
Goba’s donations go far beyond the typical blood donation. As a double platelet donor, his 500th donation equates to 1,000 individual donations.
“This makes his impact even more profound, as platelet donations are especially crucial for cancer patients, those undergoing major surgeries, and individuals with blood disorders,” said Lucy Ramirez, Donor Care Manager at Vitalant.
Platelets are transfused quickly — usually within a week — meaning the need is constant, especially during colder months when fewer people are donating.
“Mike has been a lifeline for so many patients. His donations have truly helped save lives,” Ramirez said. "We are grateful for his commitment, and we celebrate this milestone with him."
For Goba, the act of giving is rooted in the simple desire to make a difference. "When I started, I just thought I’d give it a shot,” Goba shared. “I wanted to help somebody, and it stuck.”
His contributions extend far beyond the numbers. One notable moment in his long history of donations was on Sept. 11, 2001, when Vitalant reached out for platelet donations in the midst of national tragedy. Goba immediately responded, knowing that his gift could help someone during an especially difficult time.
For the past 37 years, Goba has been donating at Vitalant. He’s a regular at the Villa Park location, providing platelet donations usually about 24 times a year. His commitment serves as a powerful reminder that we all have the ability to make a difference.
“Lucy and the staff here at Vitalant keep track of my donations, and I’m just happy to sit back and know that I’m helping someone. I just sit and watch a movie, and I know I’m making a difference.”
As we gather around the table this Thanksgiving, Mike Goba’s story embodies the true spirit of the holiday. Thanksgiving is not just about food or gifts, but about showing gratitude through giving to others. A simple donation can be a powerful way to give thanks and help save a life.
“If you’re healthy, come in and donate. You never know whose life you’ll be helping,” Goba said.
About Vitalant
Vitalant (Vye-TAL-ent)) is one of the nation’s largest nonprofit blood and biotherapies healthcare organizations, providing hospitals and patients across the U.S. a safe blood supply, specialized laboratory services, transfusion medicine expertise and world-renowned research. Individuals generously donating blood, volunteering and giving financially are essential to our lifesaving mission. Learn more at vitalant.org.