Versiti Blood Center of Michigan is once again asking the community to help save lives now by donating life-saving blood.
As the state battles conditions caused by coronavirus, including a decrease in blood donations, Versiti needs donors more than ever now that life is starting to resume like normal.
“Hospitals are resuming surgeries and trauma cases are increasing as stay-at-home orders are relaxed. We must be able to provide blood. Lives depend on it," said Versiti Blood Center of Michigan Area Vice President Dawn Kaiser.
Versiti urgently asks generous Michigan residents to donate blood of all types – especially O-negative blood, the universal blood type used in trauma situations – to ensure hospitals have the blood they need to treat cancer patients, trauma victims and those undergoing surgeries.
The facility is ensuring donor safety by requiring all employees and donors to wear a cloth face covering. Donors are also asked to bring their own face mask if they have one.
Versiti is also practicing social distancing at all donation centers and community blood drives. Temperatures of the donors are being taken before their appointment, and all employees are monitored.
Donating blood takes about an hour. Anyone age 17 or older in good health who meets eligibility requirements is encouraged to give. Parental consent is required for donors age 16 to give. Donors should bring a photo ID that includes their birth date.
Appointments are encouraged but walk-ins are welcome.
To schedule an appointment to donate blood, call 1-866-642-5663 or visit Versiti online at versiti.org/Michigan.
