WC Wisconsin News

Tomah Health and Versiti Blood Center of Wisconsin are urging local residents to donate blood during a two-day drive scheduled for July 16 and 17. The event will take place from noon to 5 p.m. at Recreation Park, located at 1625 Butts Ave., Tomah.

Officials emphasize the continuous need for blood donations, noting that hospital patients depend on volunteer donors throughout the year. "Summer’s here, and with schools out and vacation plans in full swing, we often see a dip in blood donations," stated Lauren Sanders Fleming, an account representative for Versiti. "This is a big challenge for us at Versiti Blood Center of Wisconsin, as more than half of our yearly collections come from our high school and college partners. That means we really lean on our hospital partners, like Tomah Health, to help keep our local blood supply steady during these crucial months."

Eligibility criteria for donors include being in good health, at least 17 years old, weighing a minimum of 110 pounds, and possessing photo identification. Sixteen-year-olds may donate with parental consent. The entire process typically takes about one hour, while the actual blood collection lasts around ten minutes.

Incentives are offered to encourage participation; all attempting donors will receive a coupon for free gate admission to the Monroe County Fair happening from July 23 to 27 at Recreation Park in Tomah.

Versiti Blood Center serves as the exclusive blood supplier to over sixty hospital systems in Wisconsin, including Tomah Health.