Pierce County Blood Program Credited with Saving Young Logger’s Life
On October 10, 2025, 19-year-old Will Mykland and his family reunited with the Central Pierce Fire & Rescue, South Pierce Fire & Rescue, and Airlift Northwest crews who saved his life following a devastating logging accident in August.
On August 15, 2025, Will was struck by a falling tree while working in the woods. Despite his severe injuries, he managed to crawl to safety before his partner and first responders reached him. Firefighters from Central Pierce Fire & Rescue quickly assessed his condition, called for an airlift, and began advanced treatment in the field. In the medic unit, Will received a whole blood transfusion, a lifesaving intervention that, according to Airlift Northwest and the Tacoma General trauma team, made the difference between life and death.
“I was blown away when I learned the blood transfusion kept me alive,” Will said. “It made me realize how important it is for people to donate blood.”
Launched in January 2025, the Pierce County Blood Program equips fire department units with blood, allowing medical services officers to deliver hospital-level care before patients ever arrive at the emergency department. Since its launch, the program has provided more than 70 transfusions, with over half of those going to trauma patients like Will. Research shows that starting wholeblood within 34 minutes of injury increases survivability by 50%.
“This program is saving lives today,” said Medical Services Officer, Lieutenant Brett Martinson. “Stories like Will’s show exactly why we carry whole blood in the field, and why it is so important for our community.”
The program is a partnership between Central Pierce Fire & Rescue, Tacoma Fire Department, Bloodworks Northwest, MultiCare, and the MultiCare Health Foundation.
How you can help. Every unit of blood used in the field begins with a community donor. Will is alive today because blood was available when he needed it most. You can help save lives by donating blood through Bloodworks Northwest. To learn more or schedule an appointment, visit www.bloodworksnw.org
