Granton siblings to hold 2nd annual Birthday Blood Drive
Central Wisconsin continues to face a shortage of blood and two Granton teens are wanting to help combat this national shortage. Last year Caleb and Abby Schoessow hosted a blood drive that collected more than 50 units of blood and because of that success, they are hosting another blood drive on their 17th birthday, March 28 at Zion Lutheran Church (Missouri Synod), W2894 Granton Road, from 12-5 p.m.
The twins have a goal of collecting 34 units of blood which would help 102 people in need of blood. Caleb and Abby are working with the Versiti Blood Center of Wisconsin which is the sole supplier to the Marshfield Medical Center as well as more than 50 hospitals in Wisconsin. Caleb and Abby would also like you to know a few fun facts about blood donation. Did you know: -- Someone needs blood every two seconds.
-- One pint of blood can help three patients in need.
-- It takes about an hour of your time to donate blood.
-- The minimum age limit for donating blood is 16 years of age (with parental consent) and there is no upper age limit. Caleb and Abby would like to give gifts to the youngest donor and the oldest blood donors at the drive.
The personal impact of blood shortages Caleb and Abby, juniors in the Granton Area School District, have personal reasons for wanting to hold their 17th Birthday Blood Drive. “My family is big on giving back to the comm unity and I saw the impact a blood transfusion made on my mom’s life. When she had cancer, she was in the hospital and needed a blood transfusion. If someone hadn’t donated blood, this life saving gift, my mom might not have come home to us,” Caleb said.
Abby was interested in hosting the blood drive for their 17th birthday because of last year’s success.
“Last year we didn’t really know what to expect or how many people would show up. It means so much that our community can come together and do something good for others.
“Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we were able to duplicate or increase our efforts from last year? Think about how many children and adults could be impacted because of someone’s selfless act,” Abby added.
Things to bring to your blood donation A blood donor card or driver’s license are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
Register for a time to donate Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are encouraged. To register for Caleb and Abby’s 17th Birthday Blood Drive, call 877-232-4376 OR visit https:// tinyurl.com/3fvj48fw. If you can’t find a time slot that meets your needs, reach out to Courtney Schoessow at 715-937-0856.
“I said it last year and it still holds true, there is nothing greater you can give someone than the gift of life,” Caleb said.
