Give the gift of life! Take part in the Milwaukee Bucks Blood Drive

MILWAUKEE -- Hundreds of people in Milwaukee donated blood on Monday, March 28th -- during the annual Bucks, BloodCenter of Wisconsin Blood Drive. One little girl from West Allis was especially thankful. It is because of donors like them that she has a second chance at life.

Tia Wilson

You would never know eight-year-old Tia Wilson survived a stroke and chemotherapy. She's fighting Sickle Cell Anemia, a genetic disorder that affects red blood cells -- and can cause a blockage in the vessels or stop blood flow altogether. The disease already claimed the life of her brother, cousin and aunt.

"It's a hill to climb and we are still climbing that hill. I know eventually we will get to the top," said Mickey Wilson, Tia's mother.

Mickey Wilson

After blood transfusions every four weeks and a bone marrow transplant, Tia is now getting checkups.

"They put the needle, they shrink the needle, and they put the blood into a little tube," said Tia Wilson.

Back when Tia was getting blood transfusions, she and her mom would stop by blood drives and thank people for their donation -- making sure they knew just how much it was helping.

Bucks, BloodCenter of Wisconsin Blood Drive

"It's very heartwarming. I can't thank them enough for what they have done to save my daughter's life," said Mickey Wilson.

On Monday, the BloodCenter of Wisconsin held its 16th annual Milwaukee Bucks Blood Drive. The goal -- 700 donors and lots of O negative blood.

The community blood drive was open to donors until 7:00 p.m. at the BMO Harris Bradley Center (1001 N. Fourth St., Milwaukee). There was free parking for donors in the structure at Fourth and Highland, as well as complimentary childcare.

Bucks, BloodCenter of Wisconsin Blood Drive

To give thanks toward those giving life-changing contributions, the Bucks provided all attempting donors with a voucher redeemable for two tickets to a future Bucks game this season. The vouchers can be used for the games on Wednesday, March 30th, vs. the Phoenix Suns (7:00 p.m. tip) or Friday, April 1st, vs. the Orlando Magic (7:00 p.m. tip).

Anyone 16 years or older who is in general good health and meets eligibility requirements is encouraged to donate blood, but parental consent is required for 16-year-olds. The entire process takes about an hour and all blood types are needed, but there is an especially great need for O negative donors. Donors should bring a photo ID that includes date of birth.

Bucks, BloodCenter of Wisconsin Blood Drive

For more information, call 1-877-BE-A-HERO (1-877-232-4376) or visit bucks.com/blooddrive.