NCH Blood Drive March 23

Looking for a way to help others and save lives during these challenging times? You can do your part by scheduling an appointment to donate blood.

You can donate blood if:

• You are 17 years old or older
• You are in good health
• You weigh more than 110 pounds

A red blood cell donation takes 30 minutes or less after initial screening, and a platelet donation takes 90 minutes or less after initial screening. Also, donors receive a free wellness exam that includes blood pressure, temperature and pulse checks and a hemoglobin/iron test.

As many businesses and organizations limit all “non-essential” activity, donating blood is an essential activity as outlined by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It’s a critical component of community health and public preparedness plans to maintain blood collection during this challenging time to ensure adequate patient care and survival. Please watch this video to learn more from the CDC about the urgent need for blood donations.

It’s important to note that there have been no reported cases of any respiratory virus transmitted by blood—including COVID-19. Blood donation remains a safe process, and members of the community should not hesitate to give the gift of life during this health crisis.

Upcoming Community Blood Drive at NCH

Join us from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Wed., March 23, in Rooms 6 and 7 of the main hospital and donate blood. Many appointments are still open. To make an appointment online visit https://donate.illinois.versiti.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/5599799. Appointments are preferred; however, walk-ins are welcome. Photo ID and mask required.

NCH works with Versiti Blood Centers of Illinois and plans to host monthly blood drives throughout 2022 – on March 23; April 27; May 25; June 22; July 27; August 24; September 28; October 26; November 29 and December 21.