'Doesn't take much time:' Blood donations needed after winter weather depletes supply



Versiti BloodCenter of Wisconsin blood drive



MILWAUKEE -- After a particularly rough winter, blood donations took a major hit. You can help replenish the supply.

"The cold temperatures and the severe snowstorms we saw really depleted our community blood supply," said Matt Queen with Versiti BloodCenter of Wisconsin.

At the U.S. Bank Center in downtown Milwaukee on Tuesday, March 19, community members made life-saving donations.

"Never know if it's a friend or family member that might need it. You might need it one day," Queen said.

Versiti BloodCenter of Wisconsin blood drive



Sandy Rose said her visit on Tuesday hit close to home.

"After her second round of chemo, all of her blood counts were really low," said Rose.

Sandy Rose



Rose said her mother is battling lymphoma, and her doctor recently ordered a blood transfusion.

"We need that to save lives," said Rose.

Rose said her family is doing what they can to make a difference at home -- and in the lives of others.

"My dad had lymphoma last year and he beat that, so we're hoping we have good results for her again," Rose said.

Versiti BloodCenter of Wisconsin blood drive



All blood types are needed, but there is especially a need for O negative blood, also known as the universal blood type.

"It doesn't take much time, and it certainly is not painful," said Rose.

"In an hour, you can save somebody's life through blood donations," said Queen.

Matt Queen



Versiti BloodCenter of Wisconsin's next community drive will be held Thursday, March 21 at Cudahy High School -- located at 4950 S. Lake Drive -- from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. You do not need an appointment to attend the blood drive, but you may schedule one online.

Meanwhile, there are multiple ways for you to give the gift of life.

CLICK HERE to learn more about how you can host a blood drive, find locations to donate and more.

Versiti BloodCenter of Wisconsin blood drive