Alaska Airlines is providing Vinton Smith with the 'Gift of Travel' to Hawaii, allowing him to complete his mission of donating blood in all 50 states. This journey began over a decade ago on World Blood Donor Day, June 14. Smith will make his final donation in Honolulu, accompanied by his family, turning this event into a significant personal and communal milestone.
Last summer, Alaska Airlines flew Smith to Anchorage for his 49th state donation at the Blood Bank of Alaska. The airline also contributed $10,000 to support the organization's essential services. Smith's mother, who inspired him to become a donor, will join him in Honolulu as he concludes his mission. His children will also participate by donating blood.
Smith shared his gratitude: “As a young boy, I vividly remember both of my parents donating blood. At 17, I became a donor myself... I’m incredibly grateful to Alaska for offering my family and me the ‘Gift of Travel,’ but also for providing me with a platform to share the powerful message of this life-saving act of kindness."