Working 24-hour shifts. Gone for up to 21 days in a row. This has been Michael Pradin’s schedule during his most recent mission: dealing with the California wildfires. Time after time, this LA County firefighter sets aside his own plans to show up when he is most needed. That’s why we’ve chosen to share his story.

Blood donations help people with a variety of medical problems, from emergency trauma cases to surgery and cancer patients. It’s estimated that 4.5 million Americans need blood transfusions each year. Without blood donors, these patients wouldn’t have access to life-saving treatment.

Each month, we like to highlight a member of our team who exemplifies our values of hard work and community service. This month, the Denali team choose Alfred Calugay–one of our inspirational branch managers who reminds us that we all have a role to play in serving our community.

For Cliff Walker, being a firefighter is more than a job—it’s a lifestyle. We’re looking for other first responders who go beyond the call of duty, actively contributing to their communities and showing strength, perseverance, and a passion for what they do.