Even though it was just the second time that Alana Werner has donated blood, she plans to continue giving the gift of life. “I like to help, so anyone who needs blood should get it and if I got it to give, I will,” said Werner on why she donates.
The Warrens resident was among 66 donors who took part in a two-day Tomah Health and Versiti Blood Center of Wisconsin drive held at Tomah Recreation Park Nov. 13 & 14. “It’s not a problem; it really isn’t,” Werner said of her experience. “It’s so easy. It’s very simple.”
Werner said the hospital’s relationship with Versiti is another reason why she donates. “I really like being able to help right at home in my in my area that’s a good feeling,” said Werner. Blood collected during the Tomah drives helps to support nearly 50 hospitals in Wisconsin including Tomah Health.
Versiti Blood Center account representative Emalea Cogdill said collections during the two-day drive will help treat 160 patients. “Giving blood is truly the selfless act of giving a small part of your life to save others. It is not surprising, but always heartwarming, 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.
As an extra incentive, all attempting donors were entered into drawing for a $50 gift certificate to the Hilliker Tree Farm in Tomah. The winners included Franciso Pagen, Taylor Lord, Darla Weber and Alana Werner.
The November drive was the final one for Tomah Health in 2024. Six drives are scheduled in 2025 with the first drive planned for Jan. 15 & 16.