MADISON, Wis. —  In the ever-evolving field of blood donation, one Dane County-based phlebotomist believes his work is more than just a job—it’s a calling.

Larry Robinson, a phlebotomist with the American Red Cross Southwest Wisconsin Chapter, spoke from the heart when he talked about the impact of blood donations. Robinson’s dedication to his work stems from a personal experience that changed his life forever.

What You Need To Know

  • Larry Robinson, a phlebotomist with the American Red Cross Southwest Wisconsin Chapter, was inspired to join the field after a blood donation saved his son's life
  • Robinson travels across Madison and small towns in Wisconsin, connecting with donors from various backgrounds, including regular donor UW linguistics professor Joe Salmons
  • The American Red Cross has introduced a new app feature allowing donors to track where their blood donations end up, enhancing the overall donor experience
  • The Red Cross offers a seven-week phlebotomy training program, combining virtual and in-person learning, with opportunities for career advancement and personal fulfillment

"Someone's donation actually changed my life for the better," Robinson said. "My son was in the hospital for a while. He swallowed some meconium in the womb, and he needed a couple of blood transfusions. That was really the reason why I kind of got into this work."

Robinson now travels across Madison and through small towns in Wisconsin interacting with donors from all walks of life. One such donor is University of Wisconsin linguistics professor Joe Salmons, who has enjoyed talking with Robinson.

"They (the phlebotomists) are all really nice. I’ve been giving pretty regularly the last couple of years," Salmons said.

Robinson said he appreciates the diversity of experiences his job offers.

"Being able to travel a lot, to talk to people from different walks of life, and just have different experiences almost every single day. I’ve never had a job like that, and I probably never will again," he said.

The American Red Cross is constantly updating its technology and practices to enhance the donor experience. Supervisor Jen Stark emphasized the importance of these improvements, including a new mobile app feature that allows donors to track where their blood ends up.

"It’s a changing industry. It’s part of the medical field. So, we get new supplies. We get new equipment. New diseases emerge. Our questions change. So many different things have been put in place to make sure that we're giving the safest products possible,” Stark said.

Training for phlebotomists at the American Red Cross includes a seven-week program that combines virtual and in-person learning. Trainees also receive one-on-one instruction at blood drives.

"Then, intermixed with that, they will be scheduled at blood drives with an on-the-job instructor, one-on-one, to learn those particular aspects of the job," Stark said.

Robinson said the career offers the opportunity for personal advancement, and the chance to make a lasting impact on others.

"It's all about what type of legacy I want to leave behind," Robinson said. "'What do I want people to say? Did I do everything I could and as much as I could?' Those are the things that mean the most to me."

Robinson’s son, Benny, is now a healthy and thriving nine-year-old. He’s also a constant reminder of the meaning behind Robinson’s work. For that reason, Robinson said he will always encourage others to join this field.

For more information on how to donate blood or explore job openings at the American Red Cross click here.

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