COOK COUNTY COMMISSIONER DENNIS DEER & STROGER HOSPITAL LAUNCH ENORMOUS BLOOD DRIVE
COOK COUNTY COMMISSIONER DENNIS DEER & STROGER HOSPITAL LAUNCH ENORMOUS BLOOD DRIVE
“WE MUST DEFEAT THE BAD NARRATIVE THAT BLACK AND BROWN INDIVIDUALS DON’T DONATE BLOOD”
Cook County Commissioner Dennis Deer (2nd District) was joined by Stroger Hospital Executive Donnica Austin-Cathey, Stroger Hospital Physicians, Vitalant Blood Organization Executive Tammy Winchester, Community Activists, and Civic leaders in launching an all-new Cook County Blood Drive. Commissioner Deer, who also serves as the County Board’s Chairman of the Cook County Health Board of Directors, is spearheading this effort all while strongly advocating for more African American and Hispanic donors.
“The obvious low numbers in black and brown donors are of great concern throughout the industry of medicine. In the United States, blood donation rates of African American are 25-50% of that of white individuals. Significant improvements in African American donor recruitment are needed to adequately meet the demand of African American patients as well as the entire population. “said Commissioner Deer.
Stroger Hospital is joining Commissioner Deer in calling upon the local community to rally behind a critical cause as it host this necessary blood drive. The hospital has joined the Vitalant Organization to ensure a robust response to the ongoing need for blood donations, particularly as we approach the busy holiday period. Those interested in securing a slot for donations are being encouraged to schedule an appointment by contacting Vitalant at 877.258.4825 or by visiting vitalant.org and utilizing the group code ORD0Q428. While appointments are highly recommended, walk-ins are equally welcome to take part in this life-saving event.
Preparation is key for donors to maximize the effectiveness of their contribution. It is advised that potential donors eat well, maintain hydration, and carry a valid form of identification when arriving for their donation session. This simple yet impactful act can make an immense difference in someone's life, serving as a lifeline during emergencies and surgeries and for individuals battling various medical conditions.
In a gesture of appreciation for those who generously give their time and blood, Stroger Hospital is expressing gratitude by offering a special incentive. Donors will receive a token of thanks in the form of a $10 Amazon.com Gift Card or the option to select a gift card from other reputable retailers through our donor rewards store. To qualify for this incentive, donors must have an account and be opted into the recognition program, earning redeemable points towards the selected gift card. Commissioner Dennis Deer hopes this will provide some level of support to those in need and will help generate more people to attend this important event.
Commissioner Deer adds, “The life of the body is in the blood. Blood donations not only improve lives but save lives. I am the recipient of a double lung transplant, and it is certainly God's grace and the blood donated that gave me a second chance. I encourage everyone to please donate,” says Cook Commissioner Dennis Deer of the 2nd District.”
Detailed information is available at vitalant.org or through a direct call to 877-258-4825 for those considering participation or with eligibility queries.
Latest Stories
- CTU Gathers with Faith-based Leaders to Highlight Recent Tentative Agreement Wins for Students and Educators
- COOK COUNTY COMMISSIONER KISHA MCCASKILL TAKES CENTER STAGE AS SOUTH SUBURBAN COMMUNITY UNITES FOR A GREENER FUTURE
- RICH TOWNSHIP SUPERVISOR CALVIN JORDAN LEADS HEARTWARMING SPRING CELEBRATION FOR HUNDREDS OF FAMILIES WITH “EASTER JAMBOREE” CELEBRATION
- Local Musician’s Career Spans 50 Years
- Have Questions About Money? The Illinois State Treasurer’s Office Can Help
Latest Podcast
STARR Community Services International, Inc.
