Urgent Call to Action: Donate Blood for Mothers in May
Urgent Call to Action: Donate Blood for Mothers in May
As we dive into the month of May, a heartfelt plea resonates from mothers and medical professionals alike, urging the community to donate blood for new mothers facing childbirth complications. Complications during childbirth can arise unexpectedly, necessitating blood transfusions in about 1 in 83 deliveries, requiring immediate blood supply. Amidst this alarming statistic, the nonprofit organization, Vitalant, has joined forces with three remarkable women who have experienced the dire need for blood firsthand.
The Need for Blood: Personal Stories
Kristin Belmonte, one of the women involved, shares her personal journey of survival. She experienced two separate childbirth complications that required a staggering total of 42 units of blood. Reflecting on her experiences, she recounted, "I was bleeding out faster than they could put it in, and I ended up needing 26 units of blood that day." This statement underscores the urgency for a consistent blood supply for those bringing life into the world.
Kate McMeekin, once a nurse familiar with the intricacies of blood transfusions, found herself on the receiving end when complications arose during the birth of her second child. She shared, "I needed only two units (of blood), but I have many friends who needed much more." Her commitment to giving back through blood donation not only reflects her personal mission but also serves as inspiration for others.
Dr. Vy Rossi, a recognized fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, has observed a growing incidence of patients requiring blood during childbirth. "Running a blood drive and donating at a blood drive can be so therapeutic for both the person who receives the blood and also the providers that delivered the blood," she emphasized, pointing out the interconnectedness of the community in addressing this pressing issue.
Creating a Movement: Donate for Mothers
Belmonte recently took her passion for blood donation to greater heights when she initiated an annual blood drive at Vitalant. This initiative, dubbed "Donate for Mothers," aims to expand awareness and outreach within women's health advocacy groups and the broader medical community. "We wanted to see how we could take all we were doing individually and make it bigger and something more meaningful," Belmonte explained. The overarching goal is to ensure that there is a steady supply of blood available for mothers in need.
Combining their individual efforts since they first connected through Vitalant in 2020, these women have rallied together to encourage blood donors in the community to step forward. Dr. Rossi succinctly stated their motivation, "Because that's all we want is to take care of women well. Everybody has a connection, whether it's your mother, your sister, your daughter, your best friend, your partner."
The Importance of Blood Donation
Every day, hospitals and healthcare providers require healthy, eligible donors to ensure that blood remains readily available for various medical needs. This includes support for trauma patients, surgical procedures, cancer treatments, blood disorders, and other emergencies. Individuals interested in making a difference can make an appointment to donate blood through Vitalant’s website or call their dedicated line for donor inquiries.
For more information on how to contribute to this lifesaving cause, you can visit vitalant.org, download their blood donor app, or call 877-25-VITAL (877-258-4825).
About Vitalant
Vitalant is one of the largest nonprofit organizations focused on blood collection and biotherapies in the United States. Their mission involves providing a safe blood supply, specialized laboratory services, transfusion medicine expertise, and a commitment to research. Generous contributions from blood donors, volunteers, and financial supporters are crucial to achieving their lifesaving objectives. To understand more about their operations and how you can help, visit vitalant.org today.
Let this May be a time of action and compassion; join the movement and donate blood to help mothers in need.
Topics Health）
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