Blood Drive at UHC Scheduled for Feb. 5
By Connect-Bridgeport Staff on January 28, 2025
WVU Medicine United Hospital Center is partnering with non-profit blood services organization, Vitalant, to host a blood drive on Feb. 5.
Blood donations are continually essential to support patients undergoing surgeries, cancer treatments, and other medical procedures, but the winter months pose challenges to maintaining a stable blood supply.
“UHC is proud to partner with Vitalant to host blood drives throughout the year. Blood donations are essential to saving lives, and we encourage everyone eligible to donate to do so,” said Ralph Johns, MT(ASCP), blood bank lead technologist at UHC. “Our community has a track record of showing up and making each of our blood drives successful.”
During National Blood Donor Month, nonprofit Vitalant and UHC urge all who are eligible to start the year with a lifesaving donation. Donors of all blood types are needed, especially those who have type O blood or donate platelets. Type O is the most transfused and what doctors turn to most in emergencies. Platelets, which often help cancer patients, must be used within a week of donation.
“Blood donations are a lifeline for patients battling cancer, chronic illnesses, and traumatic injuries,” said Maya Santana, Vitalant Communications Manager. “They provide strength, hope, and the chance to keep fighting.”
Blood donors are encouraged to eat a nutritious meal and drink plenty of water the day of their appointment. Everyone should bring ID such as a driver’s license or Blood Donor ID card. The following are area blood drives that may still have appointment times available. Please call 877-25-VITAL (977-258-4825) or visit www.vitalant.org to schedule your donation:
- WVUHS-United Hospital Center - Classroom 1 and 2 Wednesday, February 5 327 Medical Park Drive Bridgeport, WV 26330 Open 10 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
- WVUHS-St Joseph Hospital - Conference Center Friday, February 14 929 Brushy Fork Road Buckhannon, WV 26201 Open 10 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
