Holiday season is critical time for blood donations
Donors have the chance to win one of three $10,000 gift cards
– As the holiday season begins, November presents unique challenges for the region’s blood supply.
Blood donations are especially vital now to ensure a sufficient supply for patients, as busy schedules often lead to a decline in available donors. Emergencies and ongoing medical treatments requiring blood do not take a holiday break.
Vitalant is urging eligible donors to give blood or platelets in the coming weeks to help prevent critically low supplies for hospitals and the patients in need of transfusions.
To show appreciation for those who make a difference, Vitalant is hosting the “Make a Difference Giveaway,” where donors in November will have a chance to win one of three $10,000 gift cards.
Every blood type is important in preventing treatment delays for patients. Type O is the most commonly transfused blood type, with O-negative being a universal donor, able to help patients of any blood type, while O-positive can assist most patients.
One donor’s impact is exemplified by Alexa Lamonica and her family, who are grateful for the three units of blood that supported her during a stem cell transplant as she fought Severe Combined Immunodeficiency Disease (SCID), commonly known as “bubble boy” disease. Recently, Alexa visited a Vitalant donation center to personally thank donors and present them with tokens of her appreciation.
“I don’t think you can ever repay someone for the gift of life,” said Alexa’s mom, Michelle Lamonica. “We choose to celebrate by giving back to others and spreading kindness.”
Most people are eligible to donate blood. To review eligibility requirements and schedule an appointment, visit vitalant.org, download the Vitalant app, or call 877-25-VITAL (877-258-4825).
Select Upcoming San Luis Obispo County Blood Drives
- November 3, Oceano Elks Lodge, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- November 7, Cal Poly SLO, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- November 8, Arroyo Grande, Klondike Pizza, 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
- November 9, River Oaks at Paso Robles, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- November 22, Atascadero Elks Lodge, 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Donors can give at any community blood drive or at the Vitalant San Luis Obispo donation center at 4119 Broad Street.
