Hawthorn Mall Hosts 12-Hour Blood & Marrow Registry Drive December 20

The holiday season is widely considered the most wonderful time of the year, but for those in need of blood transfusions or bone marrow transplants for cancer treatment or other life-threatening illnesses, it can be the most worrisome time of the year.

Because the number of blood donations between Thanksgiving and Christmas traditionally dip to low levels, it's important that those who are eligible make an appointment to donate blood in order to ensure that area hospitals have an adequate supply on hand.

Fortunately, Hawthorn Mall in Vernon Hills is doing its part, by hosting a 12-hour LifeSource blood and marrow drive on Wednesday, December 20, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. The drive will take place on the mall's upper level next to Barnes & Noble, 122 Hawthorn Center, on Route 60, just west of Milwaukee Avenue.

For persons like 13-year old Max Lewis of Barrington, blood donations are invaluable. This past April, Max received a stem cell transplant after being diagnosed with aplastic anemia, a rare disease that affects bone marrow development. His treatments included several blood transfusions to help manage symptoms including low blood cell counts.

In addition to blood donations, participants will be able to join the national bone marrow registry, Be the Match, and offer a chance to help thousands of men, women and children in the U.S. like Max who are battling life-threatening diseases. The quick and painless process includes completing a short health review and registration form, and swabbing your inner cheeks. Learn more about Be the Match at lifesource.org/bonemarrow.

Numerous Hawthorn Mall retailers have pledged their support and will provide an array of incentives and raffle prizes for those who donate on December 20. Retailer My Man Cave will provide an autographed photo of Bobby Hull; Aveda will provide neck and shoulder massage coupons; chocolatier Godiva will provide a gift basket; AMC Theatres will provide gift cards; Dave & Busters will provide Power Cards; and Hawthorn Mall will donate tote bags. Additional participating retailers include Sprint,

5 Elements Nail Spa, YuKids Island Chicago, and Sbarro.

The blood donation process takes about an hour and is both safe and comfortable. Proper ID is required to donate blood. A LifeSource or military ID, driver's license or employee badge with a picture and full name are all approved forms of ID. A birth certificate along with a picture ID that includes the donor's full name will also be accepted.

To make an appointment, call (877) 543-3768 or visit LifeSource.org and search group code 179B. Appointments are suggested but walk-ins are always welcome. Donors must be at least 18 years old (16 and 17 years of age with parental consent). In preparation for their donation, donors are asked to eat well, stay hydrated and arrive with proper identification.