B. Scott Nicol Vice Chairman | Tomah Memorial Hospital Inc.
B. Scott Nicol Vice Chairman | Tomah Memorial Hospital Inc.
Residents of Tomah have made significant contributions to blood donation efforts in 2024, with over 1,000 lives saved through their participation. According to Emalea Cogdill, an account representative from Versiti Blood Center of Wisconsin, a total of 404 blood products were collected from 355 donors across five drives held throughout the year.
Cogdill expressed appreciation for the community's commitment: “Giving blood is truly the selfless act of giving a small part of your life to save others. It is not surprising to see the Tomah community step up time and time again to assure that there is a stable and ready blood supply at our local hospitals.”
Among the donors, 55 individuals donated for the first time. In comparison, over 1,300 lives were saved during six drives conducted in 2023.
The need for blood donations remains critical. Cogdill highlighted this ongoing requirement by stating, “While 37% of the population is eligible to donate blood, only 3% actually do.” She urged more people to participate: “Donations are the only way hospitals can care for patients that need blood products. Be part of the 3% and invite your friends, family and community to donate with you to avoid blood shortages this winter.”
Looking ahead, Tomah Health and Versiti plan to conduct six more blood drives in 2025. The first event is scheduled for January 15 and 16 at Recreation Park in Tomah.