Partnership Case Study: Elizabeth Beisel
Olympian Elizabeth Beisel Partners with RIBC to Tackle Blood Emergency, Inspiring New Donors
"Trust me, I'm somebody that faints with needles. The sight of blood makes me queasy. Yet, this summer I took the plunge and donated blood for the first time. I did shed a few tears, but I cannot tell you how determined I was to do it because I know how much this is needed."
BACKGROUND
The Rhode Island Blood Center (RIBC) has recently declared a blood emergency, citing a significant decline in blood donations over the summer. Factors contributing to this shortage include the Labor Day holiday, back-to-school activities, and a sustained 50% decrease in youth and first-time donors. In response to this urgent situation, RIBC has announced a partnership with Elizabeth Beisel, a 3-time Olympian and Rhode Island native. The collaboration aims to address the critical need for blood donations and inspire more people, especially the youth, to donate blood. Elizabeth Beisel's involvement is particularly poignant as she honors the legacy of her late father, Ted, who was a dedicated blood donor before succumbing to cancer in July 2021.
RESULTS & OBJECTIVES
The new partnership between RIBC and Elizabeth Beisel aims to combat the current blood shortage by encouraging community members to donate blood. Elizabeth's personal connection to the cause is profound. Despite her fear of needles and blood, she made her first blood donation, motivated by the urgent need and her father's legacy. Ted Beisel had donated gallons of blood to RIBC, and his need for blood during his cancer treatment highlighted the vital importance of donations.
This partnership is also about education. Elizabeth and RIBC are working to inform the public about the necessity of blood donations. With more than 60% of the population eligible to donate but only 3% actually doing so, there is a critical need for increased participation.
This partnership also came to be thanks to CG Sports, which recognized what matters most to Beisel and helped align her personal values with the goals of RIBC. Caitlin Grimaldi-Flick, RIBC’s Marketing and Communications Manager, noted, "Elizabeth knows first-hand how every second counts in the pool. That mindset also matters when it comes to saving lives."
Elizabeth Beisel's story and dedication aim to reduce this hesitancy. She pledges to donate blood at least five times a year and hopes her actions will inspire others.
BRAND THEMES
Legacy
Education
Health and Wellness
Community
ELIZABETH’S HIGHLIGHTS
3-time Olympian
2012 London Olympics, silver medalist in the 400m individual medley
2012 London Olympics, bronze medalist in the 200m backstroke
“We are thrilled to partner with Elizabeth Beisel, whose dedication and personal connection to our mission bring an inspiring energy to our efforts. Her commitment to donating blood and sharing her story helps highlight the urgent need for blood donations. Her positivity and resilience shine through, motivating others to join her in making a life-changing difference through blood donation.”
“Partnering with the Rhode Island Blood Center has been an incredibly meaningful journey for me. Witnessing the critical need for blood donations firsthand and knowing how much my father contributed, I felt compelled to take action. Donating blood for the first time was a powerful and emotional experience, and I’m committed to inspiring others, especially the youth, to join me in this lifesaving cause!”
