What started as a simple invitation from a friend has turned into a remarkable lifetime gift for others for local resident Mona Hanson, who recently reached an incredible milestone — donating 109 pints of blood through the Red Cross.

That adds up to about 13.5 gallons of blood donated and potentially more than 300 lives impacted through her quiet act of generosity.

Mona said it all began years ago when a friend asked if she wanted to go donate blood together. After that first experience, she realized it was something she truly felt good about doing.

“She told me that it all went well that first time and she decided it was something she felt good about doing," Kris  Howes-Vonstein  shared.

Her dedication didn’t stop when she traveled south during the winter months either. Mona continued donating while away, though those donations are not included in her current total.

Now, after more than 100 donations, Mona is still rolling up her sleeve to help others. She is already signed up to donate again on September 17 and is encouraging others to consider giving blood as well — maybe even by bringing a friend along, just like she did that very first time!

Stay tuned to the  Vinton Red Cross Blood Drive Facebook  page for their next event!