Gulf Coast Blood Celebrates Marcia James for Reaching 100-Gallon Blood Donation Milestone

HOUSTON, Texas — Gulf Coast Blood will honor longtime donor Marcia James for reaching the extraordinary milestone of donating 100 gallons of blood during a special recognition event on Friday, May 1, 2026, at 1 p.m. The celebration will take place at the Gulf Coast Blood – Cy-Fair location, 11811 FM 1960 West, Suite #120, Houston, TX 77065.

A donor for more than four decades, James has helped save lives for patients across the Gulf Coast region. Her commitment exemplifies the power of consistent generosity, and the critical role dedicated donors play in ensuring patients have access to lifesaving blood products when they need them most.

“Donating more than 100 gallons of blood isn’t just about reaching a milestone, it’s about showing up again and again for people whose lives depend on it,” said James. “The greatest reward has been meeting recipients who are thriving because others gave. I’ve been donating for 46 years and plan to continue as long as I’m able, and I’m proud to have donated with Gulf Coast Blood, one of the finest blood centers in the country.”

Gulf Coast Blood leaders say James’ dedication reflects the heart of the organization’s mission and inspires both staff and fellow donors.

“Marcia James represents the very best of our donor community,” said Kevin Shipley, Gulf Coast Blood's Vice President of Donor and Community Engagement. “Her unwavering commitment over 46 years has helped save thousands of lives and will continue to inspire others to become regular blood donors. We're incredibly grateful for her generosity and proud to celebrate this remarkable achievement alongside her, her family, and our community.”

Gulf Coast Blood supplies blood and blood products to hospitals throughout the region and relies on volunteer donors to meet the daily needs of patients undergoing surgery, cancer treatment, trauma care, and more. The public and media are invited to attend the May 1 celebration to recognize James’ exceptional contribution and learn more about how donating blood can make a lasting difference. Learn more at giveblood.org.

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About Gulf Coast Blood
Gulf Coast Blood is the sole provider of blood and blood products to Houston and surrounding communities, operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week. As one of the largest community blood centers in the United States, Gulf Coast Blood serves more than 170 hospitals and healthcare facilities across 26 counties in the Texas Gulf Coast, Brazos Valley, and East Texas regions. Its network includes Gulf Coast Blood East Texas and Gulf Coast Blood Brazos Valley, ensuring patients throughout the region have access to lifesaving blood when it’s needed most.