Find a Blood Drive
Find a Blood Drive
MOLINE, Ill. (May 14, 2018) — The American Red Cross of the Quad Cities and West Central Illinois reminds the community that the need for blood is constant. The Red Cross is partnering with WHBF-TV and KIIK 104.9 FM to host a blood drive Wednesday, June 6, from 1 to 6 p.m. at Element Moline, 316 12th St., in Moline.
The Wyant family recalls first hand that emergencies can happen when least expected.
In October 2003, Sara Wyant, a sophomore at Sherrard High School, was killed from injuries received in a car accident while on her way to school. Sara was known to have big dreams and a sparkling personality, all while sharing her compassion with others. Just five months after her 16th birthday, receiving her driver’s license and registering to become an organ donor, Sara’s life came to a halt.
Although Sara did not receive any blood products after her accident, the Wyant family holds an appreciation for the importance of blood donations. “We feel blood donations are a blessing that not only helps save lives, but also helps us to keep Sara’s memory alive,” said Tracy Wyant, Sara’s mother. “Blood donations can be miracles to those in need - a gift given so generously to each other.”
The ripple effect of the Sara’s miracle continues to touch the lives of families across the country. Three lives have been helped with the donation of her liver, kidneys and pancreas. An abundant amount of lifesaving donations has been collected over fourteen years at the annual Red Cross Sherrard High School Blood Drives in Sara’s memory.
“Many people don’t understand the importance of having blood on the shelves, especially when the unexpected happens,” said Laura McGuire, external communications manager for the Red Cross Heart of America Blood Services Region. “You just never know when you or a loved one will be the one in need. I encourage anyone who is able to donate to take an hour out of their day and give back.”
Donated blood may be used to help accident victims, surgery patients, organ transplant patients, and those receiving treatment for leukemia, cancer or sickle cell disease. There is no substitute for donated blood products. Each day, the Red Cross must collect more than 13,000 blood donations to meet the needs of patients at approximately 2,600 hospitals across the country.
While all blood types are needed, those with types O, A negative and B negative blood are encouraged to make a Power Red donation at this blood drive. Power Red donors give a concentrated dose of red blood cells during a single donation, allowing them to maximize their impact.
From disaster response, health and safety classes, to blood collection and support of military members and their families, the Red Cross will continue to serve the needs of the community.
How to donate blood
Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, sponsor code: Route66 or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) 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 in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), 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.
Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, from a computer or mobile device. To get started and learn more, visit RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass and follow the instructions on the site.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 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 CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.