Blood donors achieve gallon milestones

YANKTON, S.D. – As the temperatures rise and the days stretch longer, so does the need for lifesaving blood donations.

LifeServe Blood Center held a blood drive in Randolph last week with a great turnout of 27 donors registered to donate and 30 units of blood collected, said Kim Jensen Dietrich, LifeServe territory representative.

“Thank you to every donor who participated in the drive and helped to boost the local blood supply,” she said. “The units donated at the blood drive can help save up to 90 lives.”

Several donors also hit milestones with their recent donation at the Randolph blood drive including Warren Brunssen, seven gallons; Brelynn Wurdinger, one gallon; and Baylie Shearer, one gallon.

“Special thanks to the City of Randolph for coordinating and hosting the blood drive. We could not help patients in our 160-plus hos pitals, without communities like Randolph and your amazing volunteers and donors,” Dietrich said.

The next Randolph Community Blood Drive has been set for 12:30 to 6 p.m., Tuesday, Aug. 20, at the Randolph city auditorium.

Donors are encouraged to text ‘LIFESERVE’ to 999-777 to make their next appointment.

Those interested in volunteering, sponsoring a blood drive or learning more about fundraising or scholarship opportunities, can contact Dietrich at 712-212-5016 or kim.jensendietrich@lifeservebloodcenter.org.

In the heart of America, residents know there’s nothing more true to Midwestern character than being a blood donor, Dietrich said.

At LifeServe Blood Center, every donation has the potential to impact patients in the community.

The demand for blood surges during the summer months, fueled by increased accidents, surgeries, and medical emergencies. This summer, LifeServe is inviting community members to make a difference at home.

“Your blood donation isn’t just a selfless act, it’s an expression of the compassion, resilience, and support that define the heart of America,” Dietrich said.

Donors can earn a Midwestern T-shirt at LifeServe Blood Center’s online store.

LifeServe Blood Center is a non-profit, community-based blood center that has served the needs of local hospitals and patients in our regions since 1947.

As one of the 15 largest blood centers in the country, LifeServe provides blood products to 161 hospitals primarily in Iowa, Nebraska and South Dakota.

LifeServe is committed to saving lives by providing premier service to volunteer blood donors and access to a safe, quality blood supply for hospitals and patients.

Donations with LifeServe will help save a neighbor, a friend or family member or a stranger on the street.

For more information about blood donation or to schedule an appointment to donate blood, call 800-287-4903 or visit www.lifeservebloodcenter. org.