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Community Corner

Burlington blood drives offer three opportunities to save the day

Milwaukee, Wis. – September 17, 2013 – Due to a critical shortage, BloodCenter of Wisconsin issued an EMERGENCY APPEAL for blood donations on Monday. All blood types are needed to replenish low supplies. Burlington-area residents can donate this Friday, September 20, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Aurora Memorial Hospital of Burlington Blood Drive, 252 McHenry St., Cafeteria A & B.

BloodCenter thanks those who have been able to donate in response to its emergency appeal. An urgent need still exists for 300 additional blood donations over the next couple of days, which is above and beyond the 800 donors BloodCenter strives to see every day.

Through their generosity, donors are giving a life-saving gift to children and adults who are seriously injured, facing surgery or being treated for cancer. Just one hour of a donor’s time can save the lives of up to three patients in need.

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If donors cannot attend Friday’s blood drive, there are two additional opportunities to donate in the Burlington area next week:

Burlington Community Blood Drive
Thursday, September 24, 7 a.m. to noon
Veterans Terrace, 589 Milwaukee Ave.

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St. Mary Catholic Church Burlington Blood Drive
Wednesday, September 25, 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Catholic Central High School - Topper Hall, 148 McHenry St.

We encourage community members to schedule an appointment by calling 1-877-BE-A-HERO (1-877-232-4376), or visiting www.bcw.edu/appt or m.bcw.edu on a mobile device.

People with all blood types are asked to donate. There is also a critical need for platelets. They are important to restore needed blood cells in cancer patients, and are also used to help trauma patients recover from life-threatening injuries.

Anyone 16 or older who is in general good health and meets eligibility requirements is encouraged to donate blood. Parental consent is required for 16-year-olds to donate. The entire process takes only an hour. Donors should bring a photo ID that includes birth date.

About BloodCenter of Wisconsin
BloodCenter of Wisconsin is a not-for-profit organization that specializes in blood services, organ, tissue and marrow donation, diagnostic testing, medical services and leading-edge research. BloodCenter of Wisconsin is the only provider of blood to hospitals in 29 Wisconsin counties as well as providing support to hospitals and patients across the country. BloodCenter of Wisconsin advances patient care by delivering life-saving solutions grounded in unparalleled medical and scientific expertise. For more information, visit www.bcw.edu

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