This is the most difficult time of year for hospitals to meet patient blood needs because donations are at their lowest over the holidays.
That's why Vitalant, Arizona’s largest nonprofit blood provider, is working to get supplies back up with a big event this weekend.
Vitalant serves 90% of hospitals statewide. Sue Thew, communications manager for Vitalant, said Arizona’s population and the state’s need for blood is at its highest at the same time when donations are at their lowest.
“January is going to start off with what we’re sure will be a full surgery schedule at hospitals throughout the state because most people don’t want to do important but non-emergency surgeries over the holiday season," Thew said.
Vitalant is putting on the state’s largest blood drive on Sunday, Jan. 5, at the Tempe Center for the Arts. The organization has more than 600 appointments available between 7 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Those who give will get a voucher for a Streets of New York cheese pizza and a voucher for a day at the Waste Management Phoenix Open, a $15 Vitalant rewards gift card and a T-shirt.
