The Remarkable Story Behind Giraffe Plasma Donations Saving Lives

A Lifesaving Journey: Giraffe Plasma Donations

In an inspiring and heartwarming story, two thirteen-year-old giraffes, Mili and Grady, residing at Dickerson Park Zoo (DPZ) in Springfield, Missouri, have played a significant role in a life-saving effort for a newborn giraffe. Born through a cesarean section at Tanganyika Wildlife Park in Goddard, Kansas, this calf's life has been positively impacted by the weekly plasma donations from these gentle giants.

The plasma from Mili and Grady, which has been collected over many years, has made a crucial difference in wildlife conservation efforts. DPZ is proud to be part of the Giraffe Plasma Bank System, one of the few zoos in the United States dedicated to this important cause. These voluntary blood draws allow for not only research and medical tests but also create a bank of plasma. This resource can be utilized by other facilities when urgent medical needs arise.

On July 11, 2026, a zookeeper named Matt Corrie swiftly responded after receiving an urgent request for plasma from the International Center for Care and Conservation of Giraffes at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. The responsible organization reached out, explaining the critical situation: the calf required immediate plasma to survive. Corrie's prompt action ensured that a dose of plasma, which took six years of donations to gather, was on its way to saving a life.

The story showcases the vital collaboration between different organizations, including Tanganyika Wildlife Park and DPZ. The collective effort involved some of the top giraffe veterinarians in the nation exemplifying the potential of zoos to contribute genuinely to the conservation of species that are both beloved and endangered.

Mili and Grady may be unaware of the magnitude of their contributions; however, their altruism highlights the relationship between animals and the dedicated professionals who care for them. The effort began in 2018 when a fundraiser known as “Chilling at the Zoo” raised over $10,000 to support the DPZ animal hospital in acquiring an ultra-low freezer for preserving biological material like plasma. This investment has proved invaluable, allowing the zoo to store the plasma safely and effectively.

The accolades just keep coming for Dickerson Park Zoo, which maintains accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). Visitors can confidently support a facility that prioritizes animal welfare, provides a high-quality visitor experience, and contributes to building a better future for the planet's wildlife.

With more than 200 accredited members, the AZA leads the charge in global wildlife conservation, connecting visitors and supporters to opportunities to help animals in their natural habitats. Visit www.aza.org for additional information on how you can make a difference.

As we reflect on this inspiring tale of collaboration and compassion, it serves as a reminder of the essential role that zoos play in saving endangered species, thanks to the noble contributions from animals like Mili and Grady. Together, with the support of dedicated professionals and the love of the community, lives can be saved, and hope can thrive in the world of wildlife conservation.