News

Community Members Encouraged to Donate Blood, Save Lives
Oct 4, 2022

(ST. JOSEPH) Blood supplies across the state remain low, with some blood types in critical need. Spectrum Health Lakeland, in partnership with Versiti Blood Center of Michigan, is hosting a series of community blood drives in October at the following dates and times:

• Tuesday, October 11 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Spectrum Heath Lakeland Medical Center, located at 1234 Napier Ave. in St. Joseph.
• Wednesday, October 19 from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Spectrum Health Lakeland Niles Hospital, located at 31 N. St. Joseph Ave. in Niles.
• Tuesday, October 25 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Spectrum Health Lakeland Watervliet Hospital, located at 400 Medical Park Drive in Watervliet.

“Working in the emergency department I experience families going through the hardest day of their life but by donating blood you can give someone a second chance,” said Robert Nolan, DO, medical director of emergency medicine and quality, Spectrum Health Lakeland. “One donation can save up to three friends, neighbors, and family members within our community.”

Versiti is the only provider of blood to the hospitals in our community meaning all blood donated remains local. One pint of blood can save up to three lives. Blood donations can help trauma victims, cancer and surgery patients, premature babies, and people with anemia, among others.

Individuals aged 17 and older who weigh at least 112 pounds, are in good health, and not experiencing symptoms of cold or flu may donate blood. Donors who are 16 years old may donate but must have parent/guardian permission. Photo ID and face masks are required to donate.