On Thursday, June 14, BloodCenter of Wisconsin, part of Versiti, is joining healthcare organizations around the globe to celebrate World Blood Donor Day – as designated by the World Health Organization to salute the altruism of volunteer blood donors.

This year holds special significance as we reflect on the generosity of donors who helped to save the lives of many victims of violence at our nation’s schools, as well as those who so generously donate to help patients in need on a regular basis.

“The selfless generosity of blood donors makes a life-saving impact on trauma patients, adults and children fighting cancer, premature babies and those battling blood diseases,” said BloodCenter of Wisconsin Senior Medical Director Jerome Gottschall, M.D. “On World Blood Donor Day, we thank blood donors for their commitment and caring. I also strongly encourage the community during this critical time of the year to give the gift of life through blood donation. Patients count on donors every day, not only in times of tragedy.”

As the exclusive blood products supplier to every hospital in Southeastern Wisconsin – and 57 hospitals across the state – BloodCenter is thanking blood donors for their generosity, and raising awareness for the ongoing need for blood donations in the summer months to ensure the availability of blood products for patients in our community and beyond.

While more than 90,000 people donate blood with BloodCenter each year, blood donations tend to decline during summer because of vacations and additional family commitments. The season often brings higher numbers of accidents and emergency situations – and recent natural disasters and tragedies highlight the critical need for life-saving blood of all types, especially type O negative which can be safely given to all patients.

Donors can schedule an appointment by calling 1-877-BE-A-HERO (1-877-232-4376) or visiting versiti.org/bcw.

About BloodCenter of Wisconsin 
BloodCenter of Wisconsin, part of Versiti, is a not-for-profit organization headquartered in Milwaukee, Wis., that specializes in blood services, esoteric diagnostic testing, organ, tissue and stem cell donation, medical services and leading-edge research. We advance patient care by delivering life-saving solutions grounded in unparalleled medical and scientific expertise. The collective efforts of Versiti affiliates result in improved patient outcomes, expanded access to care, and cost efficiencies for healthcare systems nationwide. For more information, visit www.versiti.org.