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Beat the Heat and Help Save Lives by Donating Blood During Beach Days

Badger-Hawkeye

June 29, 2012
 

MADISON, Wis. - The American Red Cross has an emergency need for blood donors of all blood types. As Independence Day approaches, Madison-area residents are encouraged to schedule an appointment to donate blood or platelets during the 12th Annual Beach Days event, July 2 – 7.

“Community members in the Madison area have repeatedly stepped up to support patients during the summer months and we hope the trend continues,” said Greg Novinska, CEO of the Red Cross Badger-Hawkeye Blood Services Region. “We’re asking eligible donors to make one more stop prior to heading out for vacation to help support patients in need of lifesaving blood products.”

Beach Days kicks off on Monday, July 2 with a special blood drive at the Sheraton Hotel. All presenting donors will receive a free Red Cross t-shirt, a chance to win great raffle prizes and will be treated to lemonade, fresh fruit, sandwiches and baked goods.  

Monday, July 2 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Sheraton Hotel, 706 John Nolen Dr., Madison
 
From Tuesday, July 3 through Saturday, July 7, Beach Days continues at the Madison East and Madison West Blood Donation Centers where blood and platelet donors can enjoy a fun, tropical environment and special treats such as hot dogs, ice cream, fruit and cookies.  All presenting donors will have the chance to win great raffle prizes such as gas cards, gift certificates to local restaurants, and more!

12th Annual Beach Days Blood Donation Opportunities

Madison West Donation Center, 4860 Sheboygan Ave.
Tuesday, July 3 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Wednesday, July 4 CLOSED
Thursday, July 5 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Friday, July 6 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Saturday, July 7 from 8 a.m. to noon
 
Madison East Donation Center, 2109 Zeier Rd.
Tuesday, July 3 from noon to 6:30 p.m.
                                                Wednesday, July 4 CLOSED *Platelet donations by appointment only
Thursday, July 5 from noon to 6:30 p.m.
Friday, July 6 from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Saturday, July 7 from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m
 

Platelets – a clotting component of blood –have a shelf-life of only 5 days, making it especially important for the supply to be constantly replenished. To find out if you are eligible to donate platelets, please call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

How to Donate Blood

Simply call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license, or two other forms of identification are required at check-in.  Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental permission in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements. 

About the American Red Cross

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies more than 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or join our blog at blog.redcross.org.

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