BELMONT — Every year, about 219,000 units of blood and platelets are needed to help patients experiencing women’s health issues, including about 1 of every 83 births.

Leading up to this Mother’s Day, nonprofit Vitalant is highlighting that need and thanking donors who give through May 23 with a chance to win one of 83 gift cards for $83 when they opt in to the Vitalant Donor Rewards program.

Donors of all blood types, especially type O, are vital to always maintain a robust blood supply for patients, from emergencies to ongoing medical treatments.

Trish Anderson is grateful an adequate blood supply was available when she needed 52 units of blood during the birth of her fourth child, Dobry, via cesarean hysterectomy.

A long recovery followed for Anderson, including eight surgeries and an additional 12 units of blood.

“Each day, I reflect in appreciation over the many, many people who sat in a chair and gave selflessly from their physical body, in order to save my life,” Anderson said. “Because of them, I get to see my kids grow up.”

She and her extended family are involved in donating blood and hosting blood drives to pay forward the gift of life.

In addition to helping patients, Vitalant blood donors can also track their own health, including blood pressure, pulse, hemoglobin and cholesterol in their secure and confidential online account.

Learn all the ways you can get involved and make an appointment to donate at vitalant.org, download and use the Vitalant app or call 877-258-4825.

Upcoming Blood Drives

Barnesville

Friday, May 3

Barnesville High School

910 Shamrock Drive

8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

St. Clairsville

Wednesday, May 1

St. Clairsville Church of Christ

47694 Reservoir Road

1-5:30 p.m.

Shadyside

Wednesday, May 8

Shadyside High School

50 E. 39th St.

9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

About Vitalant

Vitalant is one of the nation’s largest nonprofit blood and biotherapies healthcare organizations, providing hospitals and patients across the U.S. a safe blood supply, specialized laboratory services, transfusion medicine expertise and world-renowned research. Individuals generously donating blood, volunteering and giving financially are essential to our lifesaving mission. Learn more at vitalant.org.