Rep. Mazzochi Encourages Donations for July 16th Blood Drive

Area residents are encouraged to sign-up to donate blood at an upcoming Blood Drive to be held at the Westmont Center, 1 S. Cass Ave, on Thursday, July 16th from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. The Blood Drive is sponsored by State Representative Deanne Mazzochi (R-Elmhurst) with the Heartland Blood Center. Those interested in donating blood should call Rep. Mazzochi’s office to schedule an appointment at (630)-852-8633 or visit RepMazzochi.com.

According to the Illinois Coalition of Community Blood Centers, the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a more than usual summer need for blood donations. “60% of blood donations come from blood drives, a significant number of which have been cancelled this year as a result of the pandemic shutdown,” Rep. Mazzochi explained. “With hospitals re-opening for elective surgery and the usual uptick in injuries during the summer months, the need for blood is more urgent than ever.” More than 500 donations are needed daily to save patient lives and donating one unit of blood can help save up to 3 lives.

Rep. Mazzochi ensured that it is safe to donate blood, “the coronavirus cannot be spread through blood donations or transfusions.” In addition to the standard blood drive protocols, there will be the following additional COVID-19 safety measures in place:

• Temperature will be checked when donors arrive and donors will be asked to wash their hands
• Everything will be wiped down to ensure sanitary measures
• Donors will be kept as far apart as possible
• All donors and crew members will be required to wear masks

Donors are required to be in good general health and feeling well, be at least 17-years-old (or 16-years-old with parental consent) and weigh at least 110 lbs. Healthy means that you feel well and can perform normal activities. If you have a chronic condition such as diabetes, healthy also means that you are being treated and the condition is under control.

“Blood donation is quick, easy, and is a small act of kindness that can literally save a life,” Rep. Mazzochi continued. “I encourage everyone who has been wondering how they can help during these difficult times to sign-up to donate today.”

Please call Rep. Mazzochi’s office with any questions or to schedule an appointment at 630-852-8633.