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Blood Donors Save Lives

 HSHS St. Anthony’s Memorial Hospital to host Blood Drive July 13

Summer is typically a time of decreased blood donations, but donors with all blood types are greatly needed as inventories continue to be affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and other variables. You can make a difference by giving blood locally to help people in your community at an upcoming blood drive hosted by HSHS St. Anthony’s Memorial Hospital and ImpactLife (previously known as Community Blood Services of Illinois).

Air Evac Lifeteam, Abbott EMS Encourage Support of Blood Supply

Emergency medical crews with Air Evac Lifeteam and Abbott EMS know firsthand about the importance of having blood components “on the shelves” and ready to transfuse at a moment’s notice. Staff members from both organizations will participate in the blood drive and encourage the community to follow suit.

“We carry whole blood units from ImpactLife on our flights based in Effingham and the surrounding region,” said Larry Thies, senior program director with Air Evac Lifeteam. “We’re supporting this blood drive because our flight teams understand the difference it makes when they can provide a blood transfusion for patients in need. And we know those units wouldn’t be available without the volunteers who step forward to give blood and support our region’s blood supply.”

All donors to the July 13 blood drive at St. Anthony’s will get their choice of a voucher for a performance pullover or a $10 gift card to redeem at Amazon, Walmart, Target, Starbucks, Lowe’s or Dunkin Donuts. In addition, all donors will be entered in the blood center’s weekly drawing for a $500 gift card.

A blood donor can give every eight weeks, or up to six times a year. All those age 17 and up (or 16 with a signed parental permission form) who weigh at least 110 lbs. and are in general good health meet the basic eligibility requirements for blood donation. A full list of donor eligibility guidelines may be found at https://www.bloodcenter.org/donate/donor/requirements-faq/.