Blood Donation: It's a marathon, not a sprint
4/23/2020 by Katy Maeder, Donor Services
As the Mayo Clinic Blood Donor Program prepares for the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, we're asking all well and healthy people to consider donating blood.
Our need is a marathon, not a sprint, according to Dr. James Stubbs, division chair of Transfusion Medicine. During the past couple of weeks, we've seen the sprint, with a great response from donors. We do need blood now, but we'll also need it in the coming months. While whole blood lasts for 42 days, platelets only last five.
That's why we're currently encouraging all donors to schedule their appointments for a week or two out, since we need to ensure our blood supply stays at adequate levels. That's the marathon.
If you're interested in donating blood, call 507-284-4475 to schedule an appointment. To make sure we're following social distancing guidelines, the Mayo Clinic Blood Donor Program will limit appointments each day to sustain inventory and ensure our donors' safety.
Here's where and when you can donate:
- Hilton Building, First Floor
Monday — Friday, 6 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Open until 7 p.m. every second Thursday of the month
- Saint Marys Campus
Joseph Building, Main Floor M-86
Monday — Friday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Mayo Clinic patients depend on the generosity of blood donors. Scheduling an appointment to donate blood helps ensure that blood is available for a loved one or other patients in need. For more information about donating blood in Rochester, Minnesota, call 507-284-4475 or contact us via email. You can also visit our web page for more information.