This is why it’s a good time to donate blood
The ongoing pandemic hasn’t reduced the need for blood donations.
In fact, the summer season always brings an increased need for people to give blood, says Colleen Aronson, Director of Transfusion Services for Advocate Aurora Health’s ACL Laboratories.
For one thing, schools are closed, so high school blood drives that often can help the supply aren’t happening. And for another, summer can bring a lot of accidents that require blood transfusion.
“Summer is always difficult for us,” Aronson says.
“The blood supply from people who donate regularly at times like this, is the blood that ends up saving lives,” she says.
So what can you do?
In Illinois, you can get in touch with the Red Cross, which can give you more information about where and when you can give blood. In Wisconsin, you can get the same information from Versiti.
You should get in touch by calling or going to a website ahead of time and making an appointment. Both blood suppliers have taken additional precautions due to the pandemic, like spacing out appointments and requiring masks. When you call to make an appointment, ask questions and make sure you feel comfortable.
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About the Author
Mike Riopell, health enews contributor, is a media relations coordinator with Advocate Health Care and Aurora Health Care. He previously worked as a reporter and editor covering politics and government for the Chicago Tribune, Daily Herald and Bloomington Pantagraph, among others. He enjoys bicycles, home repair, flannel shirts and being outside.
Thanks for the reminder. I just scheduled a donation. It was easy.