Blood Donors Needed to Save Lives and Honor Moms

For a limited time, Vitalant donors entered to win gift cards

PITTSBURGH (April 25, 2024) Every year, about 219,000 units of blood and platelets are needed to help patients experiencing women’s health issues including about 1 of every 83 births. Leading up to this Mother’s Day, nonprofit Vitalant is highlighting that need and thanking donors who give April 21-May 23 with a chance to win one of 83, $83 gift cards when they opt-in to the Vitalant Donor Rewards program.

Donors of all blood types, especially type O, are vital to always maintain a robust blood supply for patients, from emergencies to ongoing medical treatments.

Trish Anderson is grateful an adequate blood supply was available when she needed 52 units of blood during the birth of her fourth child, Dobry, via cesarean hysterectomy. A long recovery followed, including eight surgeries and an additional 12 units of blood. 

“Each day, I reflect in appreciation over the many, many people who sat in a chair and gave selflessly from their physical body, in order to save my life,” Anderson said. “Because of them, I get to see my kids grow up.” 

She and her extended family are involved in donating blood and hosting blood drives to pay forward the gift of life.

In addition to helping patients, Vitalant blood donors can also track their own health, including blood pressure, pulse, hemoglobin and cholesterol in their secure and confidential online account.

Learn all the ways you can get involved and make an appointment to donate at vitalant.org, download and use the Vitalant app or call 877-25-VITAL (877-258-4825). 

Upcoming Blood Drives

Greensburg

Friday, May 10

Harrold Zion Lutheran Church

671 Baltzer Meyer Pike

12 PM - 6 PM

Wednesday, May 15

Westmoreland Case Management

134 Industrial Park Rd.

9 AM - 2 PM

Thursday, May 16

Masonic Lodge 225 - Social Room

349 Donohoe Rd.

1 PM - 6 PM

Irwin

Wednesday, May 1

Jim Shorkey Family Auto Group

12900 US 30

10 AM - 2:30 PM

Mount Pleasant

Thursday, May 2

Mt Pleasant High School

265 State St.

8 AM - 1 PM

Rockwood

Monday, May 27

Svonavec Luke Replenishment - Heritage by the Hayloft  

3495 Copper Kettle Hwy.

8 AM – 2 PM

Smithton

Wednesday, May 22

Wyatt Incorporated

1172 Glacier Rd.

8:30 AM - 1:30 PM

Saturday, May 11, 2024 & Sunday, May 12, 202

11 am, 12:30 pm, 2 pm, 3:30 pm

Boarding begins 30 MINUTES prior to stated sailing times; and