On Tuesday, Aug. 30, the American Red Cross is teaming up with the Green Bay Packers to host the Green Bay Packers "Drive for 5" Blood Drive from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Lambeau Field - Legends Club Room. You can help the Packers move the chains to the milestone goal of 5,000 pints collected.
NBC26 will be onsite the day of the drive and will provide information and reminders to help the Red Cross promote it.
This blood drive comes at an important time of year. Blood donations are being distributed to hospitals faster than donations are coming in. Blood and platelet donations often decline during the summer months when busy summer schedules and vacation plans can cause some donors to be less available to give. The summer months are among the most challenging times of the year to collect enough blood and platelet donations to meet patient needs. Many regular donors delay giving while they participate in summer activities. But, the need for blood remains constant all summer long.
Paul DeCaster, of Ashwaubenon, Wis., had not been to see a doctor for several years since his regular doctor had moved to Colorado. A checkup with his new doctor revealed that Paul's aorta coming out of top of his heart was enlarged - he had an aortic aneurysm. In June 2011, he had surgery in which the doctor put in a piece of artificial fabric - a Dacron hose - to repair his ascending aortic aneurysm.
All presenting donors will have a chance to win great prizes from the Packers, while supplies last, and will be treated to cookies and punch. Free parking will be available to all presenting donors. Donors may enter through the American Family Gate, Miller Lite Gate or Oneida Nation Gate.
You can also download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org and use the sponsor code "PACKERS" or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to make an appointment or to obtain more information.
All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver's license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
