The American Red Cross says less than 38% of the U.S. population are eligible donors; on average, someone in the U.S. needs blood every two seconds.
To help cover that need, Preston Memorial Hospital holds blood drives six times a year.
PMH has hosted blood drives in conjunction with the American Red Cross for 39 years — since 1981.
The most recent was on Feb. 11.
Kim Liston, Community Programs coordinator, said the turnout at that drive was outstanding.
“We set a donation goal of 28 donors and we exceeded that goal with 31 donors. The yield of our five-hour blood drive will have the potential to help up to 93 individuals.”
The American Red Cross is in critical need of blood donations, making it very important that all blood drives are successful.
“In my five years with American Red Cross Blood Services, I have encountered very few organizations with the amount of years and consistent, dedicated impact as I see from PMH and this community,” said Ryan Edsall, account manager for Donor Recruitment. “The willingness of PMH employees, volunteers and Preston County community members to help others in a time of need is remarkable.”
For the past eight years, Liston has planned six blood drives between January and December each year. The American Red Cross blood donation guidelines allow donors to give every 56 days. So, PMH hosts a drive approximately every 56 days.
“We would not be able to host blood drives this frequently without the support of our sponsor, Matthews International Bronze Division,” she said. “We are thankful for their continued support, which allows our community members to help patients in need through blood donation. Many PMH employees are impressive milestone givers.”
Kathy Kline, PMH laboratory employee, has donated 75 units, or over nine gallons, of blood.
Cindy Livengood, long-time donor and now PMH volunteer, has donated 146 units, which equates to over 18 gallons of blood.
Each unit of blood donated can help up to three individuals suffering from a variety of conditions such as cancer, trauma, burns and chronic diseases.
“We are thankful to our employees, volunteers and community members for supporting the relationship between PMH and our local American Red Cross Blood Services,” said Melissa Lockwood, Mon Health Preston Memorial Hospital president and CEO. “The generosity of our local blood donors has helped patients within our community and throughout the region.”
The next PMH blood drive is a special one.
“Our Pint-Sized Hero blood drive is partnered with Kingwood Elementary School,” said Liston. “The drive will be held on April 14, 2020, at the Kingwood Community Building from noon to 5:30 p.m. and encourages teachers, parents and community members to consider donating on behalf of our children.”
PMH-sponsored blood drives are also planned for June 9, Aug. 4, Oct. 6 and Dec. 1.
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