WEB EXCLUSIVE Combatting the statewide blood shortage or self-care day? Why not both?!
If the allure of orange juice and cookies just aren’t enough to get you to “B+” (be positive, get it?) about donating blood and rush to the nearest center, what if we added a self-care spa sesh feel to the mix?
Enter the new boujee blood donation experience that is Trusting Heart Blood Center, a spa-like blood center that opened in Raleigh this week in an attempt to help combat the statewide blood shortage while elevating the blood donor experience. Think donor suites complete with cozy chairs, snacks, free Wi-Fi, TVs, integrated entertainment systems—oh, and did we mention you also get paid? So… saving lives while you binge-watch Ted Lasso and make bills… clearly donor efforts not spent in vein.
“The ongoing availability of a safe platelet supply is absolutely essential to the U.S. health care system,” says Vijai Mohan, founder and CEO of Secure Transfusion Services. “Platelets are used in the delivery of care for some of the most complex and life-threatening conditions treated at hospitals—in surgery, trauma, transplant recipients, cancer patients and others.”
And the demand for blood platelets has only continued to surge as hospitals struggle to keep up with demand. As a matter of fact, the American Red Cross is currently facing its worst blood shortage in over a decade, thanks to the ongoing national blood crisis.
Doing its part in the effort to end the platelet supply shortage in the U.S., Trusting Heart Blood Center is implementing a community-focused approach by “partnering with local donors to improve access to life saving treatments in their communities,” says Mohan.
He adds, “We are reimagining the typical platelet donor experience through our spa-like facilities, responsible compensation model, and friendly and professional staff, and we are thrilled to be able to partner with heroes in the Raleigh-Durham community who want to help deliver life-saving platelets to those in need.”
Due to an unprecedented number of blood drive cancellations in response to COVID-19 concerns, the country is currently facing a severe blood shortage. Now, more than ever, it’s critical that healthy people continue to donate blood for those that need it most. There are many opportunities to give blood locally, including through The Blood Connection and the American Red Cross. Read our guide before you schedule your next appointment.
Who Can I Contact?
Two organizations in Raleigh are available for those who want to donate blood. Both have excellent reputations and can ensure safe and successful experiences.
The Blood Connection provides blood to our local healthcare facilities including WakeMed Health, UNC Rex and more. 5925 Glenwood Avenue 1-800-392-6551 thebloodconnection.org
Eat healthy, iron-rich foods such as red meat, fish, poultry, beans, spinach, iron-fortified cereals or raisins in the days leading up to your donation.
Drink lots of liquids, especially water and fruit juices.
What If I Can’t Donate Blood?
There may be reasons why you cannot donate, including illness, medications, low iron, or travel outside of the United States, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t make a difference! Contact The Blood Connection or The American Red Cross about organizing a blood drive or volunteering at any of their Raleigh facilities.
What Can I Expect?
The blood donation process is relatively quick and easy. Here’s what to expect, step by step.
Find a blood drive or make an appointment at a blood donation center.
Sign in and review your eligibility with your chosen organization’s employee or volunteer.
Show ID, such as your driver’s license, and confirm your address.
Receive information on donating blood and answer basic health questions in a private and confidential interview.
Once registered, an employee/volunteer will check your vitals (temperature, pulse, blood pressure, and hemoglobin levels).
When it’s your turn, a technician will cleanse an area on your arm and insert a brand new, sterile needle for the blood draw (it feels like a quick pinch and it’s over in seconds).
The entire process lasts about 10 minutes and you’ll be sitting or lying down comfortably.
After the blood draw is complete (and approximately a pint of blood has been collected), you’ll get a bandage on your arm and snacks in a refreshment area.
General Requirements for Donating Blood
• Be at least 16 years old.
• Weigh at least 110 pounds.
• Be in good health generally and feel well on the day of donation.
• Provide a current photo ID on the day of donation.
