Advocate Sherman to host blood drive June 19

Elgin, Ill. - Every two seconds someone needs blood in the U.S.

Advocate Sherman Hospital is partnering with Heartland Blood Centers for a blood drive from noon to 4 p.m. Friday, June 19, in lower-level conference rooms B and C of the hospital, 1425 N. Randall Road, Elgin.

All donors will receive a $5 Target gift card.

Advocate Health Care partners with several donation centers to host blood drives and maintain blood supply levels. People of all blood types, particularly O negative, A negative and B negative, as well as platelet donors, are urged to donate.

More than 41,000 blood donations are needed each day, and one pint of blood has the ability to save three lives, according to the American Red Cross, although it is estimated that 38 percent of the U.S. population is eligible to donate, less than 10 percent actually do.

At Sherman Hospital, about 85 units of whole blood are on hand each day, as well as several other blood products. Staff typically transfuses about 300 units a month, with a vast majority used for cardiac events, traumas and orthopedic surgeries.

Photo identification is required to donate, and although appointments are preferred, walk-ins are welcome. Participates are encouraged to eat and drink plenty of fluids prior to donating.

To schedule an appointment, visit www.heartlandbc.org or call (630) 723-2565.