Harsh winter weather and a spike in illnesses are impacting local blood collections. To combat the situation, Tomah Health and Versiti Blood Center of Wisconsin officials are asking area residents to consider donating blood during a two-day blood drive on March 12 & 13 at Tomah’s Recreation Park.
“Harsh weather in addition to seasonal illness takes a tremendous toll on blood usage and donations,” said Emalea Cogdill, Versiti Blood Center of Wisconsin account representative. “While 37% of the population is eligible to donate blood, only 3% actually do. Donations are the only way hospitals can care for patients that need blood products,” added Cogdill.
To help meet the need, Tomah Health and Versiti Blood Center of Wisconsin are holding a two-day blood drive March 12 & 13 from noon – 5 p.m. at Tomah’s Recreation Park, 1625 Butts Ave., Tomah.
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.
To Register for the March 12 drive, CLICK HERE
To Register for the March 13 drive, CLICK HERE
Versiti Blood Center is a sole blood supplier to over 50 hospital systems in Wisconsin including Tomah Health.
As an extra incentive, Cogdill said a blood donation could take you to paradise. “All attempting donors who donate with Versiti at a donor center or mobile drive in March will be entered to win a trip to Hawaii,” said Cogdill.
She said one lucky donor will be randomly drawn among all Versiti donors on or around April 2. The prize includes: 5-night stay in Honolulu, Hawaii for two, round-trip flights, hotel stay, transportation to and from hotel and $300 Visa® Gift Card.