Mardi Gras Season Impacts Blood Donations, Donors encouraged to make giving blood a part of their Mardi Gras Celebrations
MORGAN CITY, LA — Blood donors can play a big part this Mardi Gras season by joining the Krewe de Life with Vitalant! Join Vitalant and share in the spirit of Mardi Gras by allowing patients the chance to laissez les bon temps rouler again! The busy nature of carnival season brings a decline in blood donations. However, an increase in activity and travel typically results in an increased need for blood in hospitals. Donors like you give patients a fighting chance.
What do we all have in common that instantly connects us and gives us the power to do more? It’s the blood pulsing within each of us. This amazing, ever-replenishing gift is truly a natural resource that, when shared, speeds healing and provides comfort. Lifesaving blood offers second chances and many tomorrows to those who depend on it.
Each year, nearly 5 million Americans need blood transfusions. Blood helps trauma and burn patients, premature infants, heart surgery patients, organ transplant recipients and those fighting cancer, among others. In emergencies, it’s the blood already on hospital shelves that saves lives.
Give blood at the Vitalant donation center located at 1234 David Dr. #102, in Morgan City or on a mobile blood drive through February 25. Donors receive a Mardi Gras themed T-shirt and Koozie! T-shirts and koozies are while supplies last.
To schedule an appointment to give blood, go to vitalant.org or call 877-258-4825. Walk-in donors are always welcome.
Volunteer blood donors must be at least 16 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in general good health. Additional height/weight requirements apply to donors 22 and younger, and donors who are 16 and 17 must have signed permission from a parent or guardian.
