Blood Donor Center Opens in Carmel Valley

The San Diego Blood Blank Donor Center in Carmel Valley held its grand opening ceremony Friday morning. More than 75 people have made donations since the center opened on April 5.

Wendy Montini has been donating blood for 35 years and said she is excited about the new center.

"I see great value in giving blood," Montini said. "My friend passed away from Leukemia so I want to give back anyway I can."

Montini said she tries to donate blood at least every six months. Before the Carmel Valley center opened, Montini had to commute an hour to the Gateway Center downtown.

CEO Ramona Watkins said the San Diego Blood Bank needs at least 400 units of blood per day to meet the needs of hospitals and the growing demand for platelets. 

Before the ceremonial ribbon cutting, 20-year-old Jackson Gaskins spoke about his struggle with spherocytosis and how blood transfusions kept him alive.

Gaskins made a video montage about a year and a half ago to thank blood donors for saving lives. After posting the video on YouTube, the San Diego Blood Bank asked him to become the face of the organization and share his story with others.

Anyone 17 or older, who weighs at least 110 pounds and is in good health, may be eligible to give blood. The San Diego Blood Bank recommends eating a good meal and getting plenty of fluids before making a donation.

The Carmel Valley Donor Center, located at 3880 Valley Centre Dr., Ste 209 and 210, is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

For more information about the San Diego Blood Bank and how to donate, visit sandiegobloodbank.org.