Medical City Lewisville hosts blood drive to address holiday need
The American Red Cross and Medical City Lewisville Hospital partner for the second annual blood drive.
In partnership with the American Red Cross and in response to holiday blood needs, Medical City Lewisville and blood transfusion recipient Nicole Johnson will host a community blood drive at the hospital. Johnson survived a rare amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) during childbirth and survived, in part, due to blood products that were on hand when her life depended on them.
“As healthcare colleagues, we know that blood products are vital. We have witnessed firsthand its lifesaving impact on patients, including pregnant moms,” says Deb Cates, director of women and children’s services at Medical City Lewisville. “During this season of giving, we are encouraging our community to help create healthier tomorrows for these patients by donating blood.”
The blood drive will be on Saturday, Dec. 30 from 8:30am to 3:30pm in the Medical City Lewisville Community Room. Community members may sign up to donate online or by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS.
“As a first-time mom who experienced a life-threatening amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) during childbirth, I needed a massive transfusion of more than 30 units of blood products and intensive care to survive,” says Nicole Johnson, an obstetrics patient at Medical City Lewisville. “Thanks to blood donations and my expert medical team, my daughter and I are alive and healthy today. Blood donations helped save my life and I encourage everyone to donate.”
Every blood type is needed, especially types O positive and O negative, as well as platelet donations. Donors can help as many as three different people with just one donation. Individuals who may rely on blood products include trauma victims, cancer and sickle cell patients, mothers giving birth and premature babies. Learn more about donor eligibility guidelines.