The severe winter weather so far this year has health care officials in Tomah asking the public to help with an urgent need for blood.
“The winter weather has a significant impact on the blood supply in our communities,” said Versiti Blood Center account representative Emalea Cogdill. “When harsh weather hits, we can’t wait for it to subside to provide life-saving donations,” Cogdill added.
She said collecting and maintaining a stable blood supply continues to be a challenge. “We are constantly challenged, especially during the winter months to meet the demand. We always need new donors to keep our blood supply stable and ready for our health care partners.”
To help meet the need, Tomah Health and Versiti Blood Center of Wisconsin are holding a two-day blood drive Jan. 31 & Feb. 1 from noon – 5 p.m. at Tomah’s Recreation Park, 1625 Butts Ave., Tomah.
To Reserve a Donation Time Jan 31, CLICK HERE
To Reserve a Donation Time Feb 1, CLICK HERE
“This is our first drive for 2023 and a great way to start a New Year resolution,” said Tomah Health marketing & public relations director Eric Prise. He recognized Tomah Parks & Recreation director Joe Protz and his staff for use of Recreation Park for the drives. Prise said donors are encouraged to register for a donation time at www.tomahhealth.org.
To donate blood, a person must be in good health, at least 17 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds and have photo identification. Sixteen-year-olds may also donate with parental consent. While the process for whole blood donation usually takes about one hour, the blood collection itself is usually about 10 minutes.
Versiti is the sole supplier of blood to nearly 50 hospitals in Wisconsin including Tomah Health.