David Polnaszek gives the gift that keeps on giving David Polnaszek gives the gift that keeps on giving (September 22, 2004)

By Jane Knoerle
Almanac Lifestyles Editor

David Polnaszek of Portola Valley recently made his 300th donation at the Stanford Medical School Blood Center and he's not through yet. His lifetime goal is 600 donations.

"You can contribute blood into your 70s as long as you're healthy," says Mr. Polnaszek, who is 59.

His 300th donation turned into a party with cakes and sparkling cider. His wife, Linda Olson; children Stephanie, Eric and Christien and their spouses, four grandchildren (the youngest 11 days old), and close friends were there.

All, except the grandkids, gave blood. It was Linda Olsen's second time. The first time she fainted. The second time she fainted again, so she won't be challenging her husband's record.

Mr. Polnaszek and his family have lived in Portola Valley for 15 years. He is manager of the Mountain View campus of Microsoft.

He first donated blood as college student at the University of Washington. Twenty years ago, he began donating blood and blood products at the Stanford Medical School Blood Center on Welch Road. He is recognized as one of the top donors at the center.

Whole blood can only be donated six times a year. However, apheresis (the process of removing one or more blood components for use by patients with cancer, leukemia, AIDS, etc), can be done every two weeks, since the blood is returned to the body.

In recognition of hitting the 300 mark, Mr. Polnaszek is hoping to encourage others to make 300 donations. To give blood, call the Stanford Medical School Blood Center at 723-7831, and let Mr. Polnaszek know so he can count you toward the goal. His phone number is 693-7804.

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