BloodCenter to Host Declaration for Donations Blood Drive

Come to the rescue for patients this summer and receive State Fair admission

Milwaukee, Wis. — June 24, 2014 — BloodCenter of Wisconsin is hosting the 13th annual Declaration for Donations Blood Drive as part of its summer blood donation effort, You to the Rescue.

Donors are encouraged to come to the rescue for patients in need on July 1 or 2, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., at the Tommy Thompson Center at Wisconsin State Fair Park. As a token of gratitude, all attempting donors will receive a ticket to the Wisconsin State Fair. Complimentary child care, parking and refreshments will also be provided.

Call 1-877-BE-A-HERO (1-877-232-4376) or visit www.bcw.edu/declarations to make an appointment.

Critical summer need
Blood donations decrease in summer months, particularly around the 4th of July holiday. Unfortunately the summer season is often when the need is the greatest — to treat accident victims and others in emergency situations. Local first responders have partnered with BloodCenter this summer to encourage community donorship. Our area firefighters and paramedics are heroes, but they can’t do it alone. They need the community to COME TO THE RESCUE with blood donations.

Blood donors came to the rescue for Dawn Marisch

On a typical day in the summer of 2011, Marisch found herself in an extraordinary and life-threatening situation. She suffered from a ruptured aneurysm while at work, and was treated by first responders before she was rushed to the hospital. Over the next four days she received a remarkable 90 units of blood, platelets and plasma.

Marisch said, “I am humbled by the number of generous donors it took to save my life.” Watch a video of Dawn’s story: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-nXQpZlyesY

As an O Negative donor herself, she understands the amazing impact just one blood donation can make. Dawn donates regularly, happy to be able to give something back for others in need.

BloodCenter is asking area residents to help reach a goal of seeing 1,500 additional blood donors across all of its community blood drives and donor centers between June 11 and August 31. As the sole provider of blood patients at 59 Wisconsin hospitals, your donation through BloodCenter of Wisconsin can make an impact on people in our local community.

Anyone 16 or older who is in general good health and meets eligibility requirements is encouraged to donate blood. Parental consent is required for 16-year-olds to donate.

Appointments are preferred to ensure a quick and convenient donation, but walk-in donors are also welcome. The entire process takes about an hour. Donors should bring a photo ID that includes birth date.

About BloodCenter of Wisconsin
BloodCenter of Wisconsin is a not-for-profit organization that specializes in blood services, organ, tissue and marrow donation, diagnostic testing, medical services and leading-edge research. BloodCenter of Wisconsin is the only provider of blood to hospitals in 29 Wisconsin counties as well as providing support to hospitals and patients across the country. BloodCenter of Wisconsin advances patient care by delivering life-saving solutions grounded in unparalleled medical and scientific expertise. For more information, visit www.bcw.edu.