BloodCenter encourages you to donate in November

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Residents in southeast Wisconsin are being asked to join BloodCenter’s Community 1,000, an effort to see 1,000 additional blood donors by Sunday, November 24th.

With the Thanksgiving holiday and harsh winter weather just around the corner, the BloodCenter often sees a drop in donations. BloodCenter’s Community 1,000 is a proactive effort to continue to help patients awaiting life-saving treatment.

All of BloodCenter’s community blood drives as well as its 12 donor centers are participating in this effort to serve patients in need. There is a particular need for O-negative blood, but all blood types are needed.

Donors are asked to schedule an appointment before Sunday, November 24th, by calling 1-877-BE-A-HERO (1-877-232-4376), visiting www.bcw.edu. Appointments are preferred to ensure a quick and convenient donation, but walk-in donors are also welcome. For donor center locations, visit www.bcw.edu/locations.

Caleb

By joining BloodCenter’s Community 1,000, donors can help someone like Caleb from Franklin — a toddler who receives blood to give him strength through his battle with cancer. He or she may also be an accident victim; a patient with a chronic blood disorder or a newborn born prematurely. Whatever the need, many patients rely on blood donors to save the day.

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. The entire process takes about an hour. Donors should bring a photo ID that includes birth date.