The need for blood never takes a holiday

“Blood is a precious live saving resource it saves thousands of lives every year,” explains Dr. Wagner.

Doctor Michael Wagner is PRMC’s medical director for transfusion medicine. Everyday, he gives blood transfusions to patients whose lives depend on it from trauma victims to folks with chronic conditions.

Blood is always in demand.

Dr. Wagner says, “We use the most blood in patients who have things like cancer, chronic kidney disease, infections and these things and these patients are actually dependent on blood transfusions so that their bodies can function.”

Doctor Wagner tells 47 ABC that some patients come in as often as two times a month in need of new blood.

During this time of the year, a shortage in the blood supply is typical, which is why the Blood Bank of Delmarva started the Holiday Heroes campaign.

“Well we’re trying to bring awareness to, really the months of December and January, because it’s a tough month to get people to come in. They’re all so busy so we’re making it a little more interesting and fun by offering fun incentives and keeping it out in the public’s eye that we still need you to come in,” says Suzanne Murray, a donor recruiter for the Blood Bank of Delmarva.

She tells us holiday heroes is their first attempt at doing something for the entire month of December to give back to those who come in and take the time to help those in need.

Through the campaign anyone who donates can win prizes all month long, even a $1,500 gift card.

Murray explains, “We really want to thank those that can spend, take an hour, an hour and a half out of their day to come in and actually give somebody the gift of life. I mean what a wonderful Christmas present.”

And for those skeptical about giving blood, just remember…

“When you’re donating blood you’re actually helping multiple people at once, so it’s very nice,” says Dr. Wagner.

To find out more about how to donate blood call 1-888-8-BLOOD or visit them online.