Grassley Praises National Blood Donation Hall of Fame Inductee, Iowan Brenna Teerlinck

Floor Remarks by Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa Senate President Pro Tempore “Blood Donor Month” Tuesday, January 13, 2026 VIDEO I’m here to honor a young Iowan. I do it during this month of January. January is National Blood Donor Month. It seems hard to believe, but every two seconds, someone in the United States needs blood. Yet, less than 10% of those who can donate blood actually donate blood. Regular blood donations can help a family member, a neighbor and maybe in most cases a stranger. An Iowan who can inspire us all to donate blood is Brenna Teerlinck. Last fall, Brenna, a St. Ambrose University student in Davenport, Iowa, was inducted into the National Blood Donation Hall of Fame. She is the youngest person ever to receive this honor. At age 16, [Brenna] was inspired to donate blood for her cousin, who was battling a rare immune disorder. She is now a freshman in college. Even though she’s in college, [Brenna] continues to donate blood regularly. Her bravery and dedication ought to inspire us all to donate blood. Congratulations, Brenna! -30-