When Shingle Springs resident Rochelle Franco was just four years old, doctors discovered a mysterious scar on her left cornea. Although her vision was already mildly impaired, it soon became clear that she would lose all vision in that eye. Fortunately, Franco was able to receive a replacement cornea from a donor, and her vision was recovered. “I’m so grateful for that gift,” she shares. “It allowed me to have a normal upbringing.” 

Nowadays, Franco is an admission and records evaluator/degree auditor at Folsom Lake College. She is also the recipient of the 2015 Classified Employee of the Year Award, yet despite her busy schedule, Franco remains a passionate advocate for blood and organ donation. Every two weeks she donates platelets to BloodSource Folsom. “On my last donation, I hit the 25-gallon milestone,” she says with pride. Franco volunteers every Sunday at BloodSource Folsom, and occasionally for other area blood drives, including Sierra Donor Services. “I’m blessed with good health,” she explains. “It motivates me to be able to give to someone who needs platelets, such as people going through chemotherapy.” In fact, she is such an avid blood donor that she even got vanity license plates with the word “DONOR” on them. “[Giving blood] is so easy,” Franco enthuses. “I wish more people would do it!”

Q: What advice would you give to your younger self?       

A: Don’t be so serious!

Q: What comes to you naturally? 

A: Caring for others and lending a helping hand.

Q: Biggest life inspirations? 

A: My family and friends. 

Q: What are you most proud of? 

A: In some small way I’ve made a difference in peoples’ lives. 

Q: Best words of wisdom you’ve received? 

A: Use the right tool for the job, and always do your best.