Edited release
12/19/23
The University of Iowa Health Care DeGowin Blood Center has put out a call for donations of both whole blood and platelets; and in particular, donations of group O whole blood.
According to a release from the U of I, winter can be a slow time for blood donations with things like bad weather or sickness preventing someone from donating blood. Unfortunately, the need is constant and can actually increase during the holidays.
Experts say each pint of blood donated benefits two patients. One pint of blood is separated into two life-saving products—red blood cells and plasma. All kinds of patients benefit from blood and platelet donations, including trauma patients, cancer patients, patients undergoing organ and marrow transplants, patients having heart surgery, those who experience postpartum hemorrhage, and patients with inherited blood disorders.
Whole blood donations typically take between 45 minutes to an hour. Donors may also choose to donate platelets instead of whole blood. That donation process takes about two hours.
Those interested in donating can learn more about the process, check their eligibility, and schedule an appointment online by visiting uidegowinbloodcenter.org or by calling 319-356-2058.