Residents who donated blood at Tomah Health / Versiti Blood Center of Wisconsin drives in 2024 helped to save 1,026 lives.
Versiti account representative Emalea Cogdill said 404 blood products were collected from 355 donors during five drives held in 2024. “Giving blood is truly the selfless act of giving a small part of your life to save others. It is not surprising to see the Tomah community step up time and time again to assure that there is a stable and ready blood supply at our local hospitals,” said Cogdill.
Of the 355 donors, Cogdill said 55 were first time donors. Just over 1,300 lives were saved during six drives held in 2023.
Cogdill said the need for blood is an ongoing effort. “While 37% of the population is eligible to donate blood, only 3% actually do,” explained Cogdill. “Donations are the only way hospitals can care for patients that need blood products. Be part of the 3% and invite your friends, family and community to donate with you to avoid blood shortages this winter.”
Tomah Health and Versiti are holding six blood drives in 2025 with the first one scheduled Jan. 15 & 16 from noon – 5 p.m. at Recreation Park in Tomah.
To register for the Jan. 15 drive, CLICK HERE
To register for the Jan. 16 drive, CLICK HERE