Find a Blood Drive
Find a Blood Drive
On January 5, 2012, 38 year-old mother of two, Reeshemah Wynn suddenly passed away less than 24 hours after being diagnosed with Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP), a rare blood disorder. The Ree Wynn Foundation is hosting their annual blood drive in her memory on Sat., Nov. 12 in Voorhees at The Mansion on Main Street from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
On January 4, 2012, Wynn went to the hospital, complaining of a headache, chest pains and nausea. After a number of tests, she was diagnosed with TTP. As the physicians prepared her for a plasmapheresis, an exchange transfusion which is the standard medical treatment for TTP, she began to experience complications. Doctors were unable to perform the plasmapheresis and the next morning, she passed away.
“While she was being prepped for the plasma exchange, my daughter went into sudden cardiac arrest and was unable to receive the treatment,” said her mother, Vicki Nicolls. ”I strongly believe that if she had received the plasma exchange, she would have survived. Therefore, I have developed an insatiable desire to help save the lives of others by hosting annual blood drives.”
Wynn was otherwise in great health and did not have any significant signs of illness. However, this disorder took hold of her without warning and her death left her family and friends in a state of shock. By hosting this blood drive, they are able to help other patients in need of lifesaving blood products. To date, the efforts of the Ree Wynn Foundation have helped to collect 354 pints of lifesaving blood since it was established in 2012.
“I encourage everyone who is healthy to become a blood donor to share the gift of life with others,” said Nicolls. “Give someone else an opportunity to live out a healthy and happy life.”
Blood donations often decline from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day as people get busy with holiday activities. The American Red Cross is encouraging donors to give now to help prevent a seasonal decline and ensure a stable supply. Appointments are encouraged. To make an appointment to donate, call 1-800-RED CROSS or visit redcrossblood.org. Sponsor Code: Gift of Life
Donate Blood in Memory of Reeshemah Wynn
Sponsored by the Ree Wynn Foundation
The Mansion on Main Street
3000 Main Street | Voorhees, N.J.
Saturday, Nov.12 | 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
How to donate blood
Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org 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 (16 with parental consent 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 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 visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.