Battle of the Badges Blood Drive

Here in the Central Valley, we don’t make excuses when it comes to people in need. We embrace the uniqueness of each person while working together to make it a home for all. A big part of that has been sharing our blood with local people who need it most, from accident and burn victims, to patients battling cancer or receiving organ transplants.

Plus, knowing your blood type and compatibility is key if you’re ever one of the 4.5 million Americans who receive a transfusion each year. And if you have Type O blood, your donation is vital because it is the type used most often during emergencies.

I was blown away by how little effort it took me to go in and donate and how impactful it could be to others!

There are special components in your blood that are proven lifesavers. Platelets, the tiny cells in your blood that form clots and stop bleeding, are most often used by cancer patients and others facing life-threatening illnesses or injuries. Plasma is commonly given to trauma, burn and shock patients, as well as people with severe liver disease or multiple clotting factor deficiencies. In each, an automated process separates these vitally needed components and then safely returns your red blood cells to you.