Blood drives set during Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Coeur d'Alene Press | UPDATED 3 hours, 57 minutes AGO
After celebrating four years cancer-free following treatment for an aggressive, fast-growing form of invasive breast cancer, nurse and mother Amy McCarter is sharing her story to encourage community members to donate blood during Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October.
McCarter credits blood donors as an important part of her cancer journey. During chemotherapy, a platelet transfusion gave her the strength to continue treatment. Later, as she prepared for surgery and radiation, a blood transfusion helped treat anemia and allowed her to continue treatment, care for her children and eventually return to work.
“I am here today because of incredible medical care, an army of people who supported me, and yes, because someone donated blood,” Amy said in a press release. “Blood donation is life-giving. Blood donation is lifesaving. And somewhere, right now, someone is counting on a stranger to give. Please be that stranger.”
Vitalant is holding numerous Spokane-area blood drives throughout October, including one in Post Falls on Oct. 23 at the Post Falls Stake Center from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Other drives are also happening in the region.
More than one-quarter of the nation’s blood supply is used by patients undergoing cancer treatment. Blood is also needed every day for trauma care, chronic illnesses, transplant surgeries and other medical procedures, making consistent community donations essential.
All blood types are needed, particularly type O, which is among the most frequently transfused. O-negative blood can be given to patients of any blood type, making it especially important during emergencies. O-positive blood can be given to patients with positive blood types, which account for more than 85% of the population.
During October, Vitalant donors will automatically be entered for a chance to win one of two $10,000 gift cards. To check eligibility and schedule an appointment, visit Vitalant’s website, use the Vitalant blood donor app or call 877-258-4825.