Published by Kirby Winn on Friday, January 25, 2019 in Archive
Davenport, Iowa – Widespread snowfall, high winds, and freezing temperatures have taken a toll on our region’s blood supply over the last week. In the last seven days, Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center has lost more than 600 donations to cancelled blood drives and donors’ inability to travel for scheduled appointments. With more winter weather on the way, MVRBC is seeking additional donors to help recoup lost donations and ensure the local blood supply remains strong. Donors may find a nearby Donor Center or mobile blood drive by calling (800) 747-5401, by scheduling online at www.bloodcenterimpact.org, or by using the IMPACT mobile app (www.bloodcenter.org/donate/donor-loyalty/app/).
“Patient need at the hospitals we serve never stops,” said Amanda Hess, Director, Donor and Public Relations. “Everyone who steps forward to give blood will help ensure our ability to meet patient needs for local hospitals and beyond.”
To recognize donors who provide this lifesaving resource during the month of January, the blood center will provide all registered donors with a voucher that can be redeemed (online or by phone) for a green “Love to Give” T-Shirt. Vouchers will be distributed at MVRBC Donor Centers and mobile blood drives through February 24.
Blood donation is a safe, simple procedure that takes about one hour. A photo I.D. or MVRBC Donor Card is required to donate. All persons age 17 and up (or 16, with a signed parental permission form) who weigh at least 110 lbs. and are in general good health meet the basic eligibility requirements for blood donation.
About Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center
Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center (MVRBC) is the exclusive provider of blood products and services to 89 hospitals in Illinois, Iowa, Missouri and Wisconsin. The Blood Center is based in Davenport, Iowa, where MVRBC’s testing, processing and primary distribution center produces transfusable blood component products from more than 200,000 whole blood and platelet apheresis donations each year. The Blood Center’s service region extends from southwestern Wisconsin to St. Louis, Missouri and from Danville, Illinois to Albia, Iowa, an area with a population of more than four million residents. For more information, go to www.bloodcenter.org.
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