Closures and cancellations from recent frigid temperatures and snow across the country caused more than 1,000 Vitalant blood donations to not be collected in January. The nonprofit urges all eligible blood donors to give in February to make sure an adequate blood supply is available to help patients in emergencies and for planned treatments.
Blood Saves a Mom’s Life in a Snowstorm
Wendy Broyles recalls the scary moments during her youngest son’s birth seven years ago in February when she was airlifted to the hospital in the middle of a blizzard. She woke up in the emergency room to learn she was bleeding from complications and needed immediate surgery. She needed several blood transfusions to replace all the blood in her body.
“So many medical professionals told us they didn’t think I would make it,” Broyles said. “People need to donate blood. It’s that important.”
All Blood Types Are Needed
Blood donors of all types are needed, especially type O, which is the most transfused because of its ability to help the most patients, particularly in emergencies. Snowstorms and other winter weather conditions cause blood drive cancellations and disrupt the blood supply, making it even more important for donors in unaffected areas to give.
Special Perks for Donors
February is Heart Health Month. In addition to helping save lives, Vitalant donors receive a free mini-physical, checking their pulse, blood pressure and cholesterol level. With each donation, donors can help save lives and track their own wellness information in their secure and confidential online portal account.
All during February, donors who give and are opted-in to the Vitalant Donor Rewards program will receive a $10 gift card of their choice.*
Learn more at vitalant.org, download and use the Vitalant blood donor app or call 877-25-VITAL (877-258-4825).
*See vitalant.org/lovedonorgift for terms, conditions and official rules.