Rock Island, IL - Some community heroes  don't wear capes - they give life-saving blood. As part of its summer "Every Hero Has a Story" activities, the Rock Island Public Library will host a community blood drive from 10:00 am to 1:30 pm on Wednesday, July 15 at the downtown Main Library, 401 19th Street. Donors will give blood in the MVRBC Donor Bus in the library parking lot off 20th Street.

The rate of blood donation typically drops by about 20 percent in summer months, according to the Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center.

What: Rock Island Public Library Community Blood Drive

When: Wednesday, July 15, 10:00 am - 1:30 pm

Where: MVRBC Donor Bus, Rock Island Main Library, 401 19th St., Rock Island, IL

Appointments: To donate, please contact Amy Sisul at (309) 732-7302 or visit www.bloodcenterimpact.org and use code 3013 to locate the drive.

Donor Eligibility Criteria: Potential donors must be at least 17 years of age (16 with parental permission form available through www.bloodcenter.org) and weigh more than 110 pounds. A photo ID or MVRBC Donor Card is required to donate. For questions about eligibility, please call the Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center at (800)747-5401. Donors who last gave blood on or before 5/20/15 are eligible to give at this drive.

About Blood Donation: Blood donation is a safe, simple procedure that takes about 45 minutes to one hour. Individuals with diabetes or controlled high blood pressure may be accepted as eligible donors.

Donors at the Rock Island Library site will be automatically entered into a drawing from the Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center for a 2015 Jeep Patriot. The drawing is part of the center's "Made in the USA" promotion to support the blood supply through the difficult summer months. The 2015 Jeep Patriot, provided with support from Ron's Toy Box (www.ronstoybox.com), is a small SUV, dark navy in color with air conditioning, cruise control, power windows, remote power locks and other features. The Blood Center will select a winner from everyone who registers to give blood at our Donor Centers and mobile blood drives until September 5. To learn more, visit www.bloodcenter.org/win.

ABOUT MVRBC: Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center is the provider of blood and blood components to more than 90 hospitals in Illinois, Iowa, Missouri and Wisconsin. Locally, MVRBC is the exclusive provider to Genesis Health System, Select Specialty Hospital and UnityPoint Health - Quad Cities.

-end-

Monday, April 6, 2015 - 2pm until 7pm

Fellowship Hall, 333 W Lotte St, Blue Grass, Iowa

www.bloodcenter.org

Give blood with the American Red Cross and help maintain the summer blood supply

PEORIA, Ill. (June 2, 2014) – The American Red Cross encourages eligible blood donors to make and keep donation appointments to maintain the summer blood supply and help prevent a shortage. Donors of all blood types are currently needed, especially those with type O negative, B negative and A negative.

While the need for blood remains constant during the summer, donations drop. Between June and August, on average, two fewer donors give blood at each Red Cross blood drive than what hospitals need. This seasonal decline could be overcome if just two additional donors - above what is expected - give blood at each Red Cross blood drive this summer.

Every two seconds someone in the United States needs blood. Recently, a patient needed 79 blood products after injuries sustained during a car accident. Thanks to blood donors who gave in the days and weeks prior, blood products were readily available for this patient and thousands of others at approximately 2,700 hospitals and transfusion centers across the country supported by the Red Cross.

This summer, there are 100 chances to give hope with the Red Cross by giving blood. Visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS to learn more and make an appointment.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities:

Carroll County

June 19 from 1-6 p.m. at Milledgeville Men's Club, 204 S. Main Ave. in Milledgeville, Ill.

June 20 from 12-6 p.m. at United Methodist Church, 405 E. Locust in Lanark, Ill.

June 27 from 12-5 p.m. at Mt. Carroll Community Building, 101 N. Main in Mount Carroll, Ill.

Clinton County

June 19 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at LyondellBasell, 3400 Anamosa Road in Clinton, Iowa

June 20 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Skyline Center, 2600 N. 4th St. in Clinton, Iowa

June 22 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Assumption Catholic Church, 147 Broadway St. in Charlotte, Iowa

Henry County

June 17 from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Kewanee OSF Saint Luke Medical Center, 1051 W. South St. in Kewanee, Ill.

June 18 from 2-6 p.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 1001 9th St. in Orion, Ill.

Lee County

June 18 from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Katherine Shaw Bethea Hospital, 403 E. First St. in Dixon, Ill.

June 30 from 3-6:30 p.m. at Amboy Community Building, 280 W. Wasson Road in Amboy, Ill.

Mercer County

June 17 from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at VFW Hall, 106 SW 3rd Ave. in Aledo, Ill.

Whiteside County

June 18 from 2-6 p.m. at American Red Cross, 112 W. Second St. in Rock Falls, Ill.

June 21 from 5:45 a.m. to 12 p.m. at CGH Medical Center, 100 E. LeFevre Road in Sterling, Ill.

June 24 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Robert Fulton Community Center, 912 4th St. in Fulton, Ill.

June 25 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at American Red Cross, 112 W. Second St. in Rock Falls, Ill.

June 26 from 4-7 p.m. at American Red Cross, 112 W. Second St. in Rock Falls, Ill.

June 27 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Rock Falls Rehabilitation and Healthcare, 430 Martin Road 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.

 

###

Monday, June 2, 2014 from 2:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at the Fellowship Hall, 333 W. Lotte St. in Blue Grass.

Sign up by calling Evelyn Troyer at 563-381-2417 or online at www.bloodcenterimpact.org

Please eat and drink before donating blood and be sure to bring donor or photo ID.

Last date to donate elsewhere is 4/7/2014.  Group Sponsor Code: 069

www.bloodcenter.org

 

PEORIA, Ill. (April 1, 2014) – With the arrival of spring comes sunnier days, warmer temperatures and a chance at a fresh start. The American Red Cross encourages eligible donors to make blood donation part of their spring ritual and help support patients like 5-year-old Nathan Pennington.

In April of last year, Nathan was diagnosed with an aggressive form of brain cancer called medulloblastoma. Nathan has received several blood product transfusions to help sustain his life following surgery to remove the tumor and currently receives periodic platelet transfusions as he continues his recovery.

"Nathan wouldn't be here without lifesaving blood donors - it's as simple as that," said Corey Pennington, Nathan's father. "Our family will always be grateful to all the blood donors who make sure patients like Nathan have the blood they need."

Make a difference this spring by rolling up a sleeve for patients in need. Visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to learn more and schedule an appointment.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities:

Carroll County

April 25 from 1-6 p.m. at Carroll County Farm Bureau, 811 S. Clay St. in Mount Carroll, Ill.

Clinton County

April 17 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at LyondellBasell, 3400 Anamosa Road in Clinton, Iowa

April 30 from 12-6 p.m. at Northeast High School, 3690 Hwy. 136 in Goose Lake, Iowa

Lee County

April 16 from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Katherine Shaw Bethea Hospital, 403 E. First St. in Dixon, Ill.

April 21 from 1:30-6 p.m. at Carlson Acupuncture & Chiropractic, 115 N. Galena in Dixon, Ill.

April 21 from 3-6 p.m. at Dixon Moose Lodge, 889 Shop Road in Dixon, Ill.

Whiteside County

April 16 from 2-6 p.m. at American Red Cross, 112 W. Second St. in Rock Falls, Ill.

April 17 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Halo Branded Solutions, 1980 Industrial Drive in Sterling, Ill.

April 22 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Robert Fulton Community Center, 912 4th St. in Fulton, Ill.

April 23 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at American Red Cross, 112 W. Second St. in Rock Falls, Ill.

April 24 from 4-7 p.m. at American Red Cross, 112 W. Second St. in Rock Falls, Ill.

April 30 from 2-6 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. 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.

 

###

With National Volunteer Month approaching, the American Red Cross encourages those who are eligible to become volunteer blood donors and support the Red Cross in its lifesaving mission.

PEORIA, Ill. (March 17, 2014) – Potentially lifesaving blood donations can only come from generous volunteers. This April, during National Volunteer Month, the American Red Cross invites eligible donors of all blood types to roll up a sleeve and help meet the constant need for donated blood.

Approximately 5,600 times a day someone receives blood donated through the Red Cross. While all types are needed, donors with type O positive or negative, B negative and A negative are especially encouraged to give.

Visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to learn more and schedule an appointment.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities:

Carroll County

April 3 from 12-5 p.m. at Chadwick Fire Department, 210 Calvert Street in Chadwick, Ill.

Clinton County

April 2 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Ashford University Regis Hall, 400 N. Bluff in Clinton, Iowa

April 12 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Prince of Peace Academy Grade School, 312 S. 4th Street in Clinton, Iowa

Henry County

April 8 from 1:30-5 p.m. at St. Patrick's Church, 201 First St. in Colona, Ill.

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

April 14 from 2-6:30 p.m. at Sacred Heart Church, 108 N. Main in Annawan, Ill.

April 15 from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Kewanee OSF St Luke Medical Center, 1051 W. South St. in Kewanee, Ill.

Mercer County

April 7 from 2-6 p.m. at Alexis Community Center, 204 W. Palmer Ave. in Alexis, Ill.

April 8 from 1-6:30 p.m. at Calvary Lutheran Church, 121 N. Meridian St. in New Windsor, Ill.

April 15 from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at VFW Hall, 106 SW 3rd Ave. in Aledo, Ill.

Rock Island County

April 11 from 12-5 p.m. at Center for Student Life, 639 38th S.t in Rock Island, Ill.

Whiteside County

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

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

April 8 from 1-6 p.m. at Robert Fulton Community Center, 912 4th St. in Fulton, Ill.

April 9 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Sterling High School, 1608 4th Ave. in Sterling, Ill.

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

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

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

###

Give blood and help save lives

PEORIA, Ill. (Feb. 3, 2014) ? Like a hospital emergency room, the American Red Cross must be prepared to provide blood for patients 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year. It's the blood already on the shelves and readily available that can be lifesaving for people like Chris Salinas.

Chris was a horse trainer who was seriously injured in an accident when a horse pinned him to the pavement. He and his family said they credit the multiple blood transfusions he received with helping him recover.

Type O negative blood is especially needed right now. O negative is the universal blood type and can potentially be transfused to patients with any type. To make an appointment to donate blood and help ensure the shelves are stocked for patients in need, please visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities:

Carroll County

Feb. 21 from 12-5 p.m. at Carroll County Farm Bureau, 811 S. Clay St. in Mount Carroll, Ill.

Clinton County

Feb. 20 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at LyondellBasell, 3400 Anamosa Road in Clinton, Iowa

Henry County

Feb. 18 from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Kewanee Hospital, 1051 W. South St. in Kewanee, Ill.

Feb. 18 from 12-5 p.m. at Kewanee Hospital, 1051 W. South St. in Kewanee, Ill.

Feb. 21 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Wethersfield High School Key Club, 439 Willard St. in Kewanee, Ill.

Feb. 25 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Black Hawk College East Campus, 26230 Black Hawk Road in Galva, Ill.

Mercer County

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

Scott County

Feb. 19 from 3-7 p.m. at Davenport Central High School, 1120 W. Main St. in Davenport, Iowa

Whiteside County

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

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

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

Feb. 27 from 4-7 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.

###

PEORIA, Ill. (Sept. 3, 2013) ? Many patients need a one-time blood transfusion, but the estimated 100,000 Americans with sickle cell disease face a lifetime of them. During September, National Sickle Cell Awareness Month, the American Red Cross encourages blood donations from donors of all types.

Most people with sickle cell disease are of African descent, but many are of Indian, Middle Eastern, Hispanic, Mediterranean and other descents. Because recipients are less likely to have complications from blood donated by someone with the same ethnicity, a diverse supply is important.

Sickle cell disease causes red blood cells to form an abnormal shape. Regular blood transfusions can help reduce the risks of stroke, damage to major organs and other complications. While better management of the disease has increased life expectancy in recent years, there is still no cure.

Visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS to learn more and make an appointment to donate blood for patients in need like those with sickle cell disease.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities:

Clinton County

Sept. 22 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Assumption Catholic Church, 147 Broadway St. in Charlotte, Iowa

Sept. 27 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Ashford University, 400 N. Bluff in Clinton, Iowa

Sept. 28 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Faith Lutheran Church, 1364 Washington St. in Andover, Iowa

Henry County

Sept. 17 from 1:30-5 p.m. at St. Patrick's Church, 201 First St. in Colona, Ill.

Sept. 17 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Kewanee High School, 1211 E. Third St. in Kewanee, Ill.

Sept. 24 from 1-6 p.m. at First United Methodist Church, 214 NW Second Ave. in Galva, Ill.

Sept. 25 from 2-6 p.m. at First Christian Church, 105 Dwight St. in Kewanee, Ill.

Mercer County

Sept. 17 from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at VFW Hall, 106 SW Third Ave. in Aledo, Ill.

Sept. 25 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Aledo Genesis Medical Center, 409 NW Ninth Ave. in Aledo, Ill.

Rock Island County

Sept. 27 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Moline Country Financial, 3709 16th St. in Moline, Ill.

Whiteside County

Sept. 16 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Prophetstown-Lyndon-Tampico CUSD #3, 79 Grove St. in Prophetstown, Ill. -Platelet donations only. Platelet donations are taken by appointment only.

Sept. 18 from 2-6 p.m. at American Red Cross, 112 W. Second St. in Rock Falls, Ill.

Sept. 19 from 12-6 p.m. at United Methodist Church, 200 W. Lincolnway in Morrison, Ill.

Sept. 24 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Robert Fulton Community Center, 912 Fourth St. in Fulton, Ill.

Sept. 25 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at American Red Cross, 112 W. Second St. in Rock Falls, Ill.

Sept. 28 from 7:30-10:30 a.m. at American Red Cross, 112 W. Second St. in Rock Falls, Ill.

Sept. 30 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Illinois State Police District 1 HQ, 3107 E. Lincolnway in Sterling, 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.

 

###

Last week, the American Red Cross announced an emergency need for blood and platelet donations. Eligible donors of all blood types, especially O negative, A negative and B negative, are still needed to help ensure a sufficient blood supply for patients.

Additional ways to help

Spread the word about the urgent need for blood donations via social media outlets like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Use the hashtag #GiveNow.

Participate in the Summer of Stories campaign. Visit redcrossblood.org/summer to watch videos of people whose lives have been touched by blood donors, then share your own story.

Learn more about Red Cross Blood Services in your community and how blood donors help save lives at redcrossblood.org.

PEORIA, Ill. (July 15, 2013) – The American Red Cross has an urgent need for blood donors of all types, especially O negative, A negative and B negative, as fewer donations than expected were given in the first half of summer. Every day donations come up short, less potentially lifesaving blood is available for patients in need.

Type O negative blood is universal and can be transfused to anyone who needs blood. Types A negative and B negative can be transfused to both Rh positive or negative patients. Blood products can be used for cancer patients, trauma victims, organ transplant recipients, premature babies, sickle cell disease patients and more.

Hospital patients are counting on generous volunteer donors to step up and give now to help ensure a sufficient blood supply is available all summer long. Visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS for more information and to make an appointment.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities:

Carroll County

Aug. 1 from 11 a.m. to 3 pm at United Methodist Church, 1901 State Route 84 in Thomson, Ill.

Aug. 15 from 1:30-6:30 pm at American Legion Hall, 221 Calvert St. in Chadwick, Ill.

Clinton County

Aug. 2 from 1-5 pm at YWCA, 317 Seventh Ave. South in Clinton, Iowa

Aug. 9 from 1-6 pm at DeWitt Community Center, 512 10th St. in DeWitt, Iowa

Henry County

Aug. 5 from 2-6:30 pm at Sacred Heart Church, 108 N. Main in Annawan, Ill.

Aug. 14 from 2-6 pm at First Christian Church, 105 Dwight St. in Kewanee, Ill.

Mercer County

Aug. 7 from 2:30-6:30 pm at United Methodist Church, 15th and 18th Avenue in Viola, Ill.

Whiteside County

Aug. 1 from 9:45 a.m. to 4 pm at CGH Medical Center, 100 E. LeFevre Road in Sterling, Ill.

Aug. 6 from 8-11 am at River Bend Senior Center, 912 Fourth St. in Fulton, Ill.

Aug. 7 from 2-6 pm at American Red Cross, 112 W. Second St. in Rock Falls, Ill.

Aug. 12 from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 pm at Prophetstown-Lyndon-Tampico CUSD 3, 79 Grove St. in Prophetstown, Ill.

Aug. 13 from 1-5:15 pm at River Bend Senior Center, 912 Fourth St. in Fulton, Ill.

Aug. 14 from 3-7 pm at Abiding Word Church, 806 E. Lynn Blvd. in Sterling, Ill.

Aug. 14 from 10 a.m. to 2 pm at American Red Cross, 112 W. Second St. in Rock Falls, Ill.

Aug. 15 from 1:30-6 pm at Carlson Acupuncture & Chiropractic, 2317 E. Lincolnway in Sterling, 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.

###

PEORIA, Ill. (June 3, 2013) – The American Red Cross encourages eligible donors to give blood this summer, helping to ensure a sufficient supply for patients in need and allowing them to create their summer of stories. Below are just a few examples of patients recently helped by Red Cross blood donors:
  • A liver transplant recipient needed 50 units of red blood cells and 50 units of plasma.

  • A mother who had complications during childbirth was given 32 units of red blood cells, 10 units of platelets, 10 units of plasma and 15 units of cryoprecipitate.

  • A trauma patient required 15 units of red blood cells.

Blood donations tend to decline during the summer, when many regular donors are on vacation and schools are out of session. However, the need for blood is constant. All blood types are currently needed, especially O negative, which is the universal blood type and can potentially be transfused to any patient.

Blood donors are encouraged to share their donation story with the Red Cross by visiting redcrossblood.org/summer. The Summer of Stories campaign is helping to raise awareness about the constant need for blood and encourage regular donations.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities:

Carroll County

June 20 from 1-6 p.m. at Milledgeville First Brethren Church, 521 N. Main Ave. in Milledgeville, Ill.

June 21 from 12-6 p.m. at United Methodist Church, 405 E. Locust in Lanark, Ill.

June 28 from 12-5 p.m. at Mount Carroll Community Building, 101 N. Main in Mount Carroll, Ill.

Clinton County

June 20 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Lyondell Chemical Co., 3400 Anamosa Road in Clinton, Iowa

June 21 from 12-6 p.m. at Prince of Peace Academy Grade School, 312 S. Fourth St. in Clinton, Iowa

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

Henry County

June 19 from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Kewanee Hospital, 1051 W. South St. in Kewanee, Ill.

June 19 from 12-5 p.m. at Kewanee Hospital, 1051 W. South St. in Kewanee, Ill.

June 26 from 2-6 p.m. at First Christian Church, 105 Dwight St. in Kewanee, Ill.

Mercer County

June 18 from 12-6 p.m. at VFW Hall, 106 SW Third Ave. in Aledo, Ill.

June 29 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at New Boston United Methodist Church, 605 Main St. in New Boston, Ill.

Muscatine County

June 27 from 2-6 p.m. at Fruitland Community Center, 104 Sand Run Road in Fruitland, Iowa

Scott County

June 24 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at LeClaire Community Library, 323 Wisconsin St. in Le Claire, Iowa

Whiteside County

June 18 from 1-5:15 p.m. at River Bend Senior Center, 912 Fourth St. in Fulton, Ill.

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

June 25 from 1-5:15 p.m. at River Bend Senior Center, 912 Fourth St. in Fulton, Ill.

June 25 from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Coventry Living Center, 612 S. St. Mary's Road in Sterling, Ill.

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

June 27 from 4-7 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 visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

 

###

Pages