David Darden
David Darden is a Hoxworth employee, blood donor, and former blood recipient. He has seen how blood donation can truly save lives. Each day at Hoxworth, he monitors the blood supply in the lab and helps ensure that when someone is in a critical situation, Hoxworth can supply the lifesaving blood thanks to donors. Recently, David was asked to do a different type of donation. A white cell, or granulocyte, blood donation. He describes this experience as different from standard blood donation but one that really changed him. Read more or watch as David shares how he represents the best of Hoxworth each day.
From Hoxworth Blood Donor to Blood Recipient
David began donating blood in college and continued to do so for many years. Several years ago, he was involved in an accident and arrived at a Cincinnati hospital as a trauma patient. Over the course of three days, he received blood transfusions from Hoxworth donors.
Now, as a Product Management Manager at Hoxworth Blood Center, David closely monitors the blood supply, helping ensure that every patient in the Cincinnati area has access to the blood they need, when they need it.
He’s also known for encouraging his coworkers to donate and take part in Hoxworth’s mission: saving lives close to home.
“We ask people to donate, but it’s important that we lead the charge as well.”
Donating White Cells with Hoxworth for a Local Patient
In spring 2026, David learned he was a match for a patient at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. This type of donation was more involved than a standard blood donation. A white cell (granulocyte) donation requires a needle in each arm, several hours of the donor’s time, and preparation in the days leading up to ensure enough white cells are produced. The procedure is performed in Hoxworth’s apheresis department.
David did not hesitate.
“It’s a way to pay it forward, but also to help a child,” he says. “That experience changed me. It made every donation feel like a promise because I know exactly what it feels like to be on the other side hoping someone out there is willing to give. I am forever grateful for the second chance Hoxworth helped give me, and I will never hesitate to step forward and donate. Every opportunity to save a life is a gift, and I will honor that gift every time I can.”
David’s commitment has inspired those around him. Not only has he encouraged coworkers to donate, but his family has also been moved by his story and now donates with Hoxworth.
“We are all part of the same mission: saving lives. I know this in the deepest, most personal way. I will never forget the time I received blood in a local hospital. Without those donations, I wouldn’t be here today. I wouldn’t be able to help others or have the chance to give back. I’m both blessed and proud to serve as a donor and an employee of Hoxworth Blood Center.”
Become a Hoxworth Hero Today
David is just one example of the donors Hoxworth relies on every day to save local lives. Each day, 450 blood donors are needed to maintain the blood supply and support patients across the region.
Can you step up to help?