Blood donations are continually essential to support patients undergoing surgeries, cancer treatments and other medical procedures but the winter months pose challenges to maintaining a stable blood supply. That’s why during National Blood Donor Month in January, nonprofit Vitalant urges all who are eligible to start the year with a lifesaving donation.
Donors of all blood types are needed, especially those who have type O blood or donate platelets. Type O is the most transfused and what doctors turn to most in emergencies. Platelets, which often help cancer patients, must be used within a week of donation.
Davi Machen was surprised to learn when she woke up from surgery that she had needed three units of blood due to internal bleeding. The mom, grandma, sister, coach and military veteran is also a blood donor and is passionate about helping others. She shares her story whenever possible in hopes of inspiring others to donate blood regularly.
“If I had the chance to meet the individuals who donated the blood that saved my life, I would want to hug them,” Machen said. “I would make sure they know they are angels on Earth.”
All who donate with Vitalant Dec. 21-Jan. 7 will receive a '90s-themed T-shirt plus a $15 gift card* in Vitalant’s Donor Rewards program.
Learn more at vitalant.org, download and use the Vitalant blood donor app or call 877-25-VITAL (877-258-4825).
*See vitalant.org/holiday90sdonor for terms, conditions and official rules.