Donating blood makes an impact and your role in the world matters. Every two seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood and just one donation can save up to three lives. Every day in the U.S. patients in hospitals, surgical centers and emergency treatment facilities need approximately 29,000 units of red blood cells, 5,000 units of platelets and 6,000 units of plasma.
Sue Thew, communications manager for Vitalant across Arizona, is charged with the task of meeting the needs of 65 Arizona hospitals. Thew states, “To meet that need, we have to find at least 600 blood donors every single day, that includes the holidays.”
Katrina Eaton is the senior account manager with Vitalant Blood Donation, the organization that coordinates with Wickenburg Elks Lodge and Wickenburg Community Hospital (WCH) to host blood drives throughout the year saving countless lives. “In our previous five blood drives, we’ve collected 400 units of blood.” States Eaton. “With our remaining drive in December, we are hoping to reach a goal of over 450 units which will be an all-time record for the Wickenburg area.”
Eaton’s passion for blood donation stems from her daughter, Presley, who was born with a very rare genetic disorder that has required her to have multiple blood transfusions in her seven years of life. Being an O-negative blood type, Presley is only able to receive O-negative blood. The Eaton family is so appreciative of the many O-negative donors and knows the importance of those who are willing to spend time and donate.
If you are able to donate at the next blood drive on December 12th and 13th please contact Bunny Hall with The
Wickenburg Elks #2160 at
928-684-9411.
Drives are held at WCH in the Activity Room from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Walk-ins are welcome, or if you prefer a scheduled time, contact Bunny Hall at 928-684-9411 to reserve your appointment today.
