Vitalant Norridge Donor Center to Feature Academy Awards Promotion February 11-24

While it is not uncommon to find someone watching a movie while donating blood or platelets, a promotion being launched by Vitalant in its Norridge Donor Center this February will seek to reward donors based on their success in picking this year's Oscar winners.

Vitalant ("Vye-TAL-ent") will unveil an 'Academy Awards Contest' at its donor center located at 5050 N. Cumberland beginning February 11, while challenging donors to pick this year's winner for Best Picture, Best Actor and Actress in a Leading Role, and Best Supporting Actor and Actress.

One lucky donor will win complimentary AMC movie tickets. The Academy Awards will be held on the evening of February 24.

With blood donations on the decline both nationally as well as throughout the Chicago area, Vitalant (formerly LifeSource) expects to unveil a series of fun promotions during the year in an effort to encourage blood donations.

"The recent bout of severe winter weather has affected blood centers all across the country," said Vitalant Regional Director Eva Quinley. "Here in Chicago, the shortage has impacted many area hospitals and there's a critical need for platelets and type O blood donations; however, all blood types are needed."

Vitalant operates 17 area donation centers and is asking anyone who is eligible to donate to do so. To be eligible, you need to be over 16 years of age and in good health. The actual donation takes only about 10 minutes, but there are questionnaires and a quick check to make sure you are healthy to donate beforehand.

To make a donation, visit www.vitalant.org or call (877) 258-4825 to make an appointment.