M*A*S*H Blood Drive

Thursday, July 10    

7:00 a.m.- 6:00 p.m.

Houdini Plaza in downtown Appleton

The 20^th Annual M*A*S*H blood drive will be held on Thursday, July 10. The annual blood drive draws people from throughout the Fox Cities area. Last year, over 400 people showed up to donate blood, and organizers are hoping for even more this year, on the 20^th anniversary of the blood drive event.

"Giving blood at M*A*S*H is a very special experience, and this year holds special significance as we celebrate 20 years of saving lives at this blood drive," said Kelli Vander Wielen of the blood center. "If you've never come to M*A*S*H, make the trip to Houdini Plaza on Thursday.  It's always a remarkable event."

Each year, hundreds of donors participate in the M*A*S*H blood drive in mid-July.  The drive is a result of the combined efforts of the Wisconsin National Guard and Community Blood Center.  Houdini Plaza is transformed into a "tent city" with olive drab tents, military fatigues, and dog tags setting the tone.  

Brats are served over the lunch hour, donors are offered Dilly Bars, and people can register to win prizes donated by local businesses.  People may schedule a donation appointment by calling the Community Blood Center at (920) 738-3131 or going to www.save3lives.org.  Scheduling an appointment reduces waiting time, keeping the total time for a donation under an hour.  Walk-in donors are always welcome.

Donating blood is a safe, simple process.  Donors must be at least 17 years old (16 with parental consent), weigh at least 110 pounds, be in general good health, and bring a photo ID.  Donors are encouraged to eat a regular meal and drink plenty of fluids prior to donating.

The Community Blood Center provides 100% of the blood used by patients in 11 Fox Valley hospitals, including Appleton Medical Center and St. Elizabeth Hospital.  The blood center is committed to providing a safe, reliable blood supply for local patients.  The Community Blood Center has donor centers in Appleton, Little Chute, and Oshkosh, and holds around 75 blood drives every month.