04 Mar 2014

Celebrate Red Cross Month by getting involved

By Ben Corey

PEORIA, Ill. (March 3, 2014) – During Red Cross Month, the American Red Cross invites everyone to make a difference in their communities by giving blood, volunteering, taking a class or making a financial donation. Those supporters enable the Red Cross to continue to help people in need like the Roux family.

Jenny Roux's son, Blake, was born with a rare and serious chromosome disorder that causes multiple abnormalities. Jenny and Blake both received two pints of blood the day he was born. For Blake, that marked the first of many transfusions. Jenny said she knew her time with him would be short, but she credits multiple blood transfusions with helping extend his life.

"Without the blood transfusions, I don't know that he would have even had the 10 months we had with him," she said.

At that point Jenny again turned to the Red Cross, and the organization's Service to the Armed Forces program provided emergency communications about Blake's death to her husband, who was deployed to Iraq.

Thanks to everyday heroes, the Red Cross was there for the Roux family in their time of need.

The Red Cross invites the public to discover their inner hero this month. To make an appointment to donate blood or for more information about other ways to get involved with the Red Cross, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

Upcoming blood donation opportunities:

Clinton County

March 23 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Assumption Catholic Church, 147 Broadway St. in Charlotte, Iowa

March 26 from 3:30-7 p.m. at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 1519 S. Washington Blvd. in Camanche, Iowa

Henry County

March 18 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Kewanee High School, 1211 E. Third St. in Kewanee, Ill.

March 25 from 1-6 p.m. at First United Methodist Church, 214 N. W. Second Ave in Galva, Ill.

March 28 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Woodhull Alwood High School Student Council, 301 E. Fifth Ave. in Woodhull, Ill.

Mercer County

March 18 from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Mercer County High School, 1500 College Ave. in Aledo, Ill.

March 18 from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at VFW Hall, 106 SW Third Ave. in Aledo, Ill.

March 19 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Aledo Genesis Medical Center, 409 North West Ninth Ave. in Aledo, Ill.

 

Whiteside County

March 19 from 2-6 p.m. at American Red Cross, 112 W. Second St. in Rock Falls, Ill.

March 19 from 3-7 p.m. at Abiding Word Church, 806 E. Lynn Blvd. in Sterling, Ill.

March 20 from 12-6 p.m. at United Methodist Church, 200 W. Lincolnway in Morrison, Ill.

March 25 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Robert Fulton Community Center, 912 Fourth St. in Fulton, Ill.

March 26 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at American Red Cross, 112 W. Second St. in Rock Falls, Ill.

March 29 from 5:45 a.m. to 12 p.m. at CGH Medical Center, 100 E. LeFevre Road in Sterling, Ill.

March 29 from 7-10:30 a.m. at American Red Cross, 112 W. Second St. in Rock Falls, Ill.

 

How to donate blood

Simply call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver's license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

 

About the American Red Cross

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. The Red Cross is supported in part through generous financial donations from the United Way. For more information, please visit redcross.org or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

 

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18 Feb 2014

Be an everyday hero during Red Cross Month

By Ben Corey

PEORIA, Ill. (Feb. 17, 2014) – Blood donors are everyday heroes who help save lives. During March, Red Cross Month, the American Red Cross recognizes these lifesavers, thanks them for their generosity and encourages others to join their ranks.

Courtney Krisher will be forever grateful for the donors who helped save her brother, Lucas. The siblings, who are both members of the U.S. military, had given blood together just a few months before Lucas was in a motorcycle accident. He was rushed to the hospital with extensive internal bleeding and received four pints of blood.

"Some people call me and my brother heroes (because of our military service), but I think the same could be said for people who give blood," Courtney said.

The Red Cross has been meeting the needs of patients like Lucas since World War II and today partners with nearly 2,700 hospitals and transfusion centers throughout the U.S.

To make an appointment to give blood and be an everyday hero, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

 

Upcoming blood donation opportunities:

Carroll County

March 3 from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at West Carroll High School, 500 Cragmoor Drive in Savanna, Ill.

Henry County

March 6 from 12-6 p.m. at First United Methodist Church S Campus Bldg, 302 N. State St. in Geneseo, Ill.

March 12 from 2-6 p.m. at First Christian Church, 105 Dwight St. in Kewanee, Ill.

March 13 from 2-6 p.m. at St John's Vianney Church, 313 S. West St. in Cambridge, Ill.

Rock Island County

March 5 from 1:30-5:30 p.m. at American Red Cross, 1100 River Drive in Moline, Ill.

Whiteside County

March 5 from 2-6 p.m. at American Red Cross, 112 W. Second St. in Rock Falls, Ill.

March 11 from 1-6 p.m. at Robert Fulton Community Center, 912 4th St. in Fulton, Ill.

March 12 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at American Red Cross, 112 W. Second St. in Rock Falls, Ill.

March 13 from 3-8 p.m. at Tampico United Methodist Church, 202 Lincoln Ave. in Tampico, Ill.

How to donate blood

Simply call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver's license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

About the American Red Cross

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. The Red Cross is supported in part through generous financial donations from the United Way. For more information, please visit redcross.org or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

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17 Sep 2013

Donated blood, platelets can help transplant patients

By Ben Corey

PEORIA, Ill. (Sept. 16, 2013) ? October is Liver Awareness Month, and the American Red Cross reminds eligible donors that organ transplant patients often rely on donated blood products. Liver transplant patients may need 30 or more transfusions during the surgery.

Recently, a liver transplant patient at a hospital served by the Red Cross was treated with more than 75 units of red blood cells, platelets and plasma.

Liver transplants are the second most common transplant, with more than 6,000 performed every year in the U.S. ? and more than 16,000 Americans are currently waiting for a liver transplant, according to the American Liver Foundation.

Ways to protect your liver from disease

There are a variety of ways to help protect your liver from disease. The American Liver Foundation offers these simple tips:

- Maintain a healthy diet low in fatty foods.

- Limit alcohol intake.

- Do not smoke.

- Manage medications appropriately.

- Limit contact with toxins.

- Exercise regularly.

For more information, visit liverfoundation.org.

Please visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS to make an appointment to donate blood or platelets to help patients like these and many others.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities:

Carroll County

Oct. 14 from 12-5 p.m. at Savanna Moose Lodge, 125 Main St. in Savanna, Ill.

Henry County

Oct. 7 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Black Hawk College-East, 26230 Black Hawk Road in Galva, Ill.

Oct. 9 from 2-6 p.m. at First Christian Church, 105 Dwight St. in Kewanee, Ill.

Oct. 14 from 2:30-6 p.m. at Hooppole Community Center, 1404 Washington St. in Hooppole, Ill.

Mercer County

Oct. 3 from 1-6:30 p.m. at Calvary Lutheran Church, 121 N. Meridian St. in New Windsor, Ill.

Oct. 15 from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at VFW Hall, 106 SW Third Ave. in Aledo, Ill.

Whiteside County

Oct. 2 from 2-6 p.m. at American Red Cross, 112 W. Second St. in Rock Falls, Ill.

Oct. 3 from 9:45 a.m. to 4 p.m. at CGH Medical Center, 100 E. LeFevre Road in Sterling, Ill.

Oct. 8 from 1-6 p.m. at Robert Fulton Community Center, 912 Fourth St. in Fulton, Ill.

Oct. 9 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at American Red Cross, 112 W. Second St. in Rock Falls, Ill.

Oct. 14 from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Prophetstown-Lyndon-Tampico CUSD 3, 79 Grove St. in Prophetstown, Ill.

Oct. 15 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Morrison Institute of Technology, 701 Portland in Morrison, Ill.

The need is constant. The gratification is instant. Give blood.®

How to donate blood

Simply call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver's license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

About the American Red Cross

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. The Red Cross is supported in part through generous financial donations from the United Way. For more information, please visit redcross.org or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

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28 Aug 2013

Need for blood donations prior to Labor Day holiday weekend

By Ben Corey
Red Cross rewards blood donors as summer winds down

PEORIA, Ill. (Aug. 26, 2013) ? With the arrival of Labor Day and the unofficial end to summer, the American Red Cross encourages eligible donors to roll up a sleeve and give blood or platelets to help ensure sufficient supplies over the holiday weekend.

Those who present to donate between Aug. 26 and Sept. 9 could win one of five $1,000 American Express gift cards, and all donors will walk away with the instant gratification that they may be helping to save more than one life.

"The summer may be coming to an end, but the work of the Red Cross is far from over," said Shelly Heiden, CEO of the Red Cross Heart of America Blood Services Region. "As you make plans for this Labor Day holiday, please also make time to give blood and help patients who depend on your lifesaving donation."

While thousands of people answered the call for blood and platelet donations issued by the Red Cross earlier this summer, an urgent need remains for platelets and types O negative, A negative and B negative blood. The summer months can be especially difficult to collect enough blood and platelet donations to keep pace with patient needs.

"Patients in local hospitals often can't take a break to enjoy the holiday," Heiden said. "But blood and platelet donors can give these patients a chance to enjoy this time with family and friends - simply by rolling up a sleeve."

Live a story. Give a story. Donate blood or platelets. Call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org/summer for more information and to make an appointment to help save lives.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities:

Henry County

Aug. 28 from 2-6 p.m. at First Christian Church, 105 Dwight St. in Kewanee, Ill.

Sept. 5 from 12-6 p.m. at First United Methodist South Campus Building, 302 N. State St. in Geneseo, Ill.

Sept. 7 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Walgreens, 500 S. Main St. in Kewanee, Ill.

Sept. 9 from 1-6 p.m. at Alpha United Methodist Church, 211 N. Scandia in Alpha, Ill.

Mercer County

Aug. 28 from 2-6 p.m. at Alexis Community Center, 204 W. Palmer Ave. in Alexis, Ill.

Rock Island County

Sept. 4 from 1:30-5:30 p.m. at American Red Cross of Quad Cities, 1100 River Drive in Moline, Ill.

Scott County

Aug. 30 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Hy-Vee, 4064 E. 53rd St. in Davenport, Iowa

Whiteside County

Aug. 27 from 1-5:15 p.m. at River Bend Senior Center, 912 Fourth St. in Fulton, Ill.

Aug. 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at American Red Cross, 112 W. Second St. in Rock Falls, Ill.

Sept. 4 from 2-6 p.m. at American Red Cross, 112 W. Second St. in Rock Falls, Ill.

Sept. 4 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Focus Services, 1100 First Ave. in Rock Falls, Ill.

How to donate blood

Simply call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver's license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in.

Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

About the American Red Cross

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-forprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. The Red Cross is supported in part through generous financial donations from the United Way. For more information, please visit redcross.org or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

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01 Aug 2013

The need is constant: Red Cross seeks additional blood donors this summer

By Ben Corey

PEORIA, Ill. (Aug. 1, 2013) ? While many volunteers generously responded to the emergency  call for blood donations from the American Red Cross in July, donors of all blood types, especially O negative, A negative and B negative, are still needed this summer. Blood products are being distributed to hospitals almost as quickly as donations are coming in.

Blood and platelets are needed for many reasons. Accident and burn victims, heart surgery patients and organ transplant recipients, as well as those receiving treatment for cancer or sickle cell disease, may depend on lifesaving transfusions. In fact, every two seconds a patient in the U.S. needs a blood transfusion.

The Red Cross, on behalf of the hospitals and patients it serves, appreciates all those who take the time to help save lives. Visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS to learn more and schedule an appointment as soon as possible.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities:

Carroll County

Aug. 16 from 12-6 p.m. at St. Wendelin's Catholic Church, 102 S. Linn in Shannon, Ill.

Aug. 19 from 12-5 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church, 502 Third St. in Savanna, Ill.

Aug. 23 from 1-6 p.m. at Church of God, 816 S. Clay in Mount Carroll, Ill.

Henry County

Aug. 21 from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Kewanee Hospital, 1051 W. South St. in Kewanee, Ill.

Aug. 21 from 12-5 p.m. at Kewanee Hospital, 1051 W. South St. in Kewanee, Ill.

Aug. 28 from 2-6 p.m. at First Christian Church, 105 Dwight St. in Kewanee, Ill.

Mercer County

Aug. 20 from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at VFW Hall, 106 SW Third Ave. in Aledo, Ill.

Aug. 26 from 3-6:30 p.m. at First Christian Church, 20th and Main Street in Keithsburg, Ill.

Aug. 28 from 2-6 p.m. at Alexis Community Center, 204 W. Palmer Ave. in Alexis, Ill.

Scott County

Aug. 30 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Hy-Vee, 4064 E. 53rd St. in Davenport, Iowa

Whiteside County

Aug. 20 from 1-5:15 p.m. at River Bend Senior Center, 912 Fourth St. in Fulton, Ill.

Aug. 21 from 2-6 p.m. at American Red Cross, 112 W. Second St. in Rock Falls, Ill.

Aug. 22 from 4-7 p.m. at American Red Cross, 112 W. Second St. in Rock Falls, Ill.

Aug. 27 from 1-5:15 p.m. at River Bend Senior Center, 912 Fourth St. in Fulton, Ill.

Aug. 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at American Red Cross, 112 W. Second St. in Rock Falls, Ill.

The need is constant. The gratification is instant. Give blood.®

How to donate blood

Simply call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver's license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

About the American Red Cross

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. The Red Cross is supported in part through generous financial donations from the United Way. For more information, please visit redcross.org or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

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09 Jul 2013

Red Cross issues emergency call for blood and platelet donors

By Ben Corey

Blood donations down about 10 percent in June

 

PEORIA, Ill. (July 9, 2013) - The American Red Cross issued an emergency request for platelet and blood donors of all blood types to roll up a sleeve and give because many fewer donations than expected were received in June and the first week of July.

"We are counting on generous volunteer blood and platelet donors to step up and give now," said Shelly Heiden, CEO for the Red Cross Heart of America Blood Services Region. "Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. Each day donations come up short, less blood is available for these patients in need."

Nationwide, donations through the Red Cross were down approximately 10 percent in June, resulting in about 50,000 fewer donations than expected. The shortfall is similar to what the Red Cross experienced in June 2012.

June can be among the most challenging months of the year for blood and platelet donations as regular donors delay giving while they adjust to summer schedules. High school and college blood drives account for as much as 20 percent of Red Cross donations during the school year. Donations from those who usually give at these drives drop by more than 80 percent when school is out for the summer. In addition, a mid-week Independence Day holiday reduced the number of blood drives scheduled in early July. Many sponsors, especially businesses, were unable to host drives because employees took extended vacations.

The Red Cross urgently needs donations to ensure an adequate blood supply is available for patients all summer long. Each day, the American Red Cross Heart of America Blood Services Region needs approximately 500 blood donations. Eligible donors with types O negative, B negative and A negative blood are especially encouraged to give. Type O negative is the universal blood type and can be transfused to anyone who needs blood. Types A negative and B negative can be transfused to Rh positive or negative patients.

There is also an urgent need for platelet donations. Platelets - a key clotting component of blood often needed by cancer patients - must be transfused within five days of donation, so it's important to have a steady supply of platelets on hand.

 

Upcoming Blood Donation Opportunities

 

Henry County

July 9 from 1:30-5 p.m. at St. Patrick's Church, 201 First St. in Colona, Ill.

July 10 from 2-6 p.m. at First Christian Church, 105 Dwight St. in Kewanee, Ill.

July 11 from 2-6 p.m. at St. John's Vianney Church, 313 S. West St. in Cambridge, Ill.

July 23 from 1-6 p.m. at First United Methodist Church, 214 NW Second Ave. in Galva, Ill.

 

Mercer County

July 16 from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at VFW Hall, 106 SW Third Ave. in Aledo, Ill.

 

Muscatine County

July 12 from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Menasha Packaging, 3206 Hershey Ave. in Muscatine, Iowa

July 17 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at U.S. Bank, 1800 Park Ave. in Muscatine, Iowa

 

Whiteside County

July 9 from 1-5:15 p.m. at River Bend Senior Center, 912 Fourth St. in Fulton, Ill.

July 10 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at American Red Cross, 112 W. Second St. in Rock Falls, Ill.

July 11 from 3-8 p.m. at Tampico United Methodist Church, 202 Lincoln Ave. in Tampico, Ill.

July 16 from 1-5:15 p.m. at River Bend Senior Center, 912 Fourth St. in Fulton, Ill.

July 16 from 12-6 p.m. at United Methodist Church, 200 W. Lincolnway in Morrison, Ill.

July 17 from 2-6 p.m. at American Red Cross, 112 W. Second St. in Rock Falls, Ill.

July 19 from 1-5 p.m. at Northland Mall, 2900 E. Lincolnway in Sterling, Ill.

July 23 from 1-5:15 p.m. at River Bend Senior Center, 912 Fourth St. in Fulton, Ill.

 

How to Donate Blood

Simply call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver's license, or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental permission in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

 

About the American Red Cross

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. The Red Cross is supported in part through generous financial donations from the United Way. For more information, please visit redcross.org or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

 

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09 Jul 2013

It takes all blood types to help save lives

By Ben Corey

PEORIA, Ill. (July 1, 2013) – Whether someone is among the 39 percent of the U.S. population with type O positive blood or the 2 percent with B negative, the American Red Cross is looking for eligible donors of all types to give blood this summer to help avert a shortage.

Those with O negative, A negative and B negative are especially urged to donate, as their blood types are often in high demand because they can potentially be transfused to both Rh negative and positive patients. O negative is the universal blood type and can potentially be transfused to any patient.

Vacations, activities and holidays contribute to a decrease in donations during the summer, but patients don't get a break from needing blood. Visit the Summer of Stories campaign website, redcrossblood.org/summer, to make an appointment to donate, then share why you give blood and watch videos about people whose lives have been touched by donors.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities:

Clinton County

July 27 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Clinton Ericksen Center, 1401 - 11th Ave. North in Clinton, Iowa
July 29 from 2:30-6:30 p.m. at Elvira Zion Lutheran Church, 2207 380th Ave. in Clinton, Iowa

Henry County

July 23 from 1-6 p.m. at First United Methodist Church, 214 NW Second Ave. in Galva, Ill.
July 24 from 2-6 p.m. at First Christian Church, 105 Dwight St. in Kewanee, Ill.

Mercer County

July 16 from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at VFW Hall, 106 SW Third Ave. in Aledo, Ill.
July 24 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Aledo Genesis Medical Center, 409 NW Ninth Ave. in Aledo, Ill.
July 27 from 2:30-6:30 p.m. at Sherrard Fire House, 101 E. First St. in Sherrard, Ill.

Muscatine County

July 17 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at U.S. Bank, 1800 Park Ave. in Muscatine, Iowa

Scott County

July 29 from 12-4 p.m. at Bettendorf Courtyard by Marriott, 895 Golden Valley Drive in Bettendorf, Iowa

The need is constant. The gratification is instant. Give blood.™

21 May 2013

Two more donors: Red Cross launches Summer of Stories blood donor campaign

By Ben Corey
PEORIA, Ill. (May 20, 2013) ? The American Red Cross is launching the Summer of Stories campaign to share the personal impact blood and platelet donors can have on a patient in need and to help ensure a sufficient blood supply is available in the months ahead.

Summer is a time for the days that never end. Time for diving in and grilling out. Time to watch the fireworks, to have a picnic, to root for the home team. While many have fun making these memories, hospital patients are counting on eligible donors to make time to give blood or platelets so they can continue making and sharing their own summer memories and stories.

"Stories are the glue that bind many of us together," said Shelly Heiden, CEO of the Heart of America Services Region. "Whether you've needed blood, have given blood or simply want to share a fun summer memory, we want to hear from you."

The Red Cross asks all eligible blood and platelet donors to join its Summer of Stories campaign, which kicks off May 23 and runs through Sept. 9. Through Summer of Stories, the organization hopes to encourage at least two more donors to give blood at every Red Cross blood drive this summer ? above what's expected ? to help ensure lifesaving blood products are available at a moment's notice.

Historically, during the summer months of June, July and August, about two fewer donors give blood at each Red Cross blood drive than what patients need. But, this seasonal challenge can be overcome two generous donors at a time, at every blood drive, every day. Individuals can visit redcrossblood.org/summer to make an appointment to donate and share their donation story.

To kick off Summer of Stories and encourage donations before and after the Memorial Day holiday, all presenting blood donors between May 23 and 31 could win one of five $1,000 American Express gift cards to help create their own summer of stories.

Live a story. Give a story. Donate blood or platelets. Call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org/summer for more information and to make an appointment to help save lives.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities:

Clinton County

May 24 from 12-6 p.m. at Wild Rose Casino & Resort, 777 Wild Rose Drive in Clinton, Iowa

May 28 from 3-6 p.m. at Clinton Church of Christ, 210 N. 13th St. in Clinton, Iowa

June 5 from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Central High School, 519 E. 11th St. in De Witt, Iowa


Henry County

May 22 from 2-6 p.m. at First Christian Church, 105 Dwight St. in Kewanee, Ill.

May 28 from 1-6 p.m. at First United Methodist Church, 214 NW Second Ave. in Galva, Ill.

June 6 from 2-6 p.m. at American Legion, 509 N. School St. in Atkinson, Ill.

June 12 from 2-6 p.m. at First Christian Church, 105 Dwight St. in Kewanee, Ill.

June 12 from 2-6 p.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 1001 Ninth St. in Orion, Ill.


Mercer County

May 21 from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at VFW Hall, 106 SW Third Ave. in Aledo, Ill.

May 22 from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Mercer County Hospital, 409 NW Ninth Ave. in Aledo, Ill.

June 11 from 2-6 p.m. at New Windsor Presbyterian Church, Fourth and Walnut in New Windsor, Ill.


Rock Island County

June 5 from 1-6 p.m. at American Red Cross Quad Cities, 1100 River Drive in Moline, Ill.


Whiteside County

May 21 from 1-5:15 p.m. at River Bend Senior Center, 912 Fourth St. in Fulton, Ill.

May 21 from 12-6 p.m. at United Methodist Church, 200 W. Lincolnway in Morrison, Ill.

May 22 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Rock Falls Blood Donation Center, 112 W. Second St. in Rock Falls, Ill.

May 25 from 7-11 a.m. at Rock Falls Blood Donation Center, 112 W. Second St. in Rock Falls, Ill.

May 28 from 1-5:15 p.m. at River Bend Senior Center, 912 Fourth St. in Fulton, Ill.

May 29 from 2-6 p.m. at Rock Falls Blood Donation Center, 112 W. Second St. in Rock Falls, Ill.

June 4 from 8-11 a.m. at River Bend Senior Center, 912 Fourth St. in Fulton, Ill.

June 5 from 2-6 p.m. at American Red Cross, 112 W. Second St. in Rock Falls, Ill.

June 6 from 9:45 a.m. to 4 p.m. at CGH Medical Center, 100 E. LeFevre Road in Sterling, Ill.

June 10 from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Prophetstown-Lyndon-Tampico CUSD 3, 79 Grove St. in Prophetstown, Ill.

June 11 from 1-5:15 p.m. at River Bend Senior Center, 912 Fourth St. in Fulton, Ill.

June 12 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at American Red Cross, 112 W. Second St. in Rock Falls, Ill.


How to donate blood

Simply call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver's license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

About the American Red Cross

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters;  supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or join our blog at http://blog.redcross.org.

###
01 May 2013

Blood donors give patients the chance to create a summer of stories

By Ben Corey

PEORIA, Ill. (May 1, 2013) ? With summer right around the corner, many people are now planning their summer activities and vacations. After all, summer is a time to create lifelong memories. When eligible donors give blood with the American Red Cross, they can also give others time to make their own memories ? watching fireworks, having a picnic, sleeping under the stars, taking a dip or rooting for the home team.

Blood donations often decline during the summer, when schools are out and vacations are in. The Red Cross encourages donors to make an appointment to give now to help ensure a stable supply in the weeks and months ahead, giving patients a chance to create a summer of stories.

Donors who present to give blood between May 23 and 31 in honor of Memorial Day could win one of five $1,000 American Express gift cards to create their own summer of stories. In addition, their donations will honor those who gave their life for our country and support those in need of care. The Red Cross serves about 3,000 hospitals and transfusion centers across the country, including many Veterans Affairs medical centers.

Learn more and make an appointment to donate blood by visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities:

Clinton County
May 18 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Law Enforcement Center, 241 Seventh Ave. North in Clinton, Iowa
May 24 from 12-6 p.m. at Wild Rose Casino & Resort, 777 Wild Rose Drive in Clinton, Iowa
May 28 from 3-6 p.m. at Clinton Church of Christ, 210 N. 13th St. in Clinton, Iowa

Henry County
May 22 from 2-6 p.m. at First Christian Church, 105 Dwight St. in Kewanee, Ill.
May 28 from 1-6 p.m. at First United Methodist Church, 214 NW Second Ave. in Galva, Ill.

Mercer County
May 21 from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at VFW Hall, 106 SW Third Ave. in Aledo, Ill.
May 22 from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Mercer County Hospital, 409 NW Ninth Ave. in Aledo, Ill.

Whiteside County
May 17 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Sterling High School, 1608 Fourth Ave. in Sterling, Ill.
May 21 from 1-5:15 p.m. at River Bend Senior Center, 912 Fourth St. in Fulton, Ill.
May 21 from 12-6 p.m. at United Methodist Church, 200 W. Lincolnway in Morrison, Ill.

May 22 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Rock Falls Blood Donation Center, 112 W. Second St. in Rock Falls, Ill.
May 25 from 7-11 a.m. at Rock Falls Blood Donation Center, 112 W. Second St. in Rock Falls, Ill.
May 28 from 1-5:15 p.m. at River Bend Senior Center, 912 Fourth St. in Fulton, Ill.
May 29 from 2-6 p.m. at Rock Falls Blood Donation Center, 112 W. Second St. in Rock Falls, Ill.

The need is constant. The gratification is instant. Give blood.®

How to donate blood
Simply call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an
appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for
patients. A blood donor card or driver's license or two other forms of identification are required
at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh
at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school
students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and
weight requirements.

About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters;
supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides
international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red
Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the
American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or join
our blog at http://blog.redcross.org.

###

15 Apr 2013

Give blood in honor of World Red Cross Day

By Ben Corey

PEORIA,Ill. (April 15, 2013) – May 8 is World Red Cross Day, and the American Red Cross encourages eligible individuals to celebrate by donating lifesaving blood in their communities. The need is constant, and all blood types are needed, especially O negative, B negative and A negative.

For more than 130 years, the Red Cross has been dedicated to helping people in communities large and small across the U.S. It is the only humanitarian services organization that provides blood services, serves as the emergency communication link between military personnel and their families, offers health and safety training and responds to disasters of all types and sizes.

Join the Red Cross family this month and make an appointment to give blood in honor of World Red Cross Day at redcrossblood.org.

World Red Cross Day

World Red Cross Day is celebrated every year on May 8, the birthday of Henry Dunant, who officially founded the International Red Cross & Red Crescent Movement nearly 100 years ago. The holiday recognizes worldwide efforts to advocate for the relief of human suffering, whether from disease, disaster, war or famine.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities:

Carroll County
May 8 from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at West Carroll High School, 500 Cragmoor Drive in Savanna, Ill.

Clinton County
May 14 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Ashford University Calling Center, 1310 19th Ave. North in Clinton, Iowa

Henry County
May 2 from 12-6 p.m. at First United Methodist Church South Campus Building, 302 N. State St. in Geneseo, Ill.
May 8 from 1:15-5:15 p.m. at First Christian Church, 105 Dwight St. in Kewanee, Ill.
May 9 from 2-6 p.m. at St. John's Vianney Church, 313 S. West St. in Cambridge, Ill.

Mercer County
May 2 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Sherrard High School, 4701 176th in Sherrard, Ill.

Whiteside County
May 1 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Fulton High School, 1207 12th St. in Fulton, Ill.
May 1 from 2-6 p.m. at American Red Cross, 112 W. Second St. in Rock Falls, Ill.
May 4 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Army National Guard, 716 Sixth Ave. in Rock Falls, Ill.
May 6 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Prophetstown High School, 310 Riverside in Prophetstown, Ill.
May 7 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Erie High School, 435 Sixth Ave. in Erie, Ill.
May 7 from 8-11 a.m. at River Bend Senior Center, 912 Fourth St. in Fulton, Ill.
May 8 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at American Red Cross, 112 W. Second St. in Rock Falls, Ill.
May 9 from 3-8 p.m. at Tampico United Methodist Church, 202 Lincoln Ave. in Tampico, Ill.
May 13 from 4:30-7:30 p.m. at Montmorency School, 9415 Hoover Road in Rock Falls, Ill.
May 14 from 1-5:15 p.m. at River Bend Senior Center, 912 Fourth St. in Fulton, Ill.
May 15 from 2-6 p.m. at American Red Cross, 112 W. Second St. in Rock Falls, Ill.

The need is constant. The gratification is instant. Give blood.™

How to donate blood
Simply call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an
appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for
patients. A blood donor card or driver's license or two other forms of identification are required
at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh
at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school
students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and
weight requirements.

About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters;
supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides
international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red
Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the
American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or join
our blog at http://blog.redcross.org.

###

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