Giving Back to Those Who Have Served This Memorial Day

This Memorial Day weekend, Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center is supporting the Special Operations Patriots Fund to encourage blood donations and raise funds for our veterans and their families in need. From May 26-29, 2023, Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center will donate $5 to the Special Operations Patriots Fund for every successful blood donation.

The Special Operations Patriots Fund is an independent project from Blood Centers of America to raise money and awareness for active and retired U.S. Special Operations personnel who are wounded, ill, injured, or have fallen upon difficult times. This assistance is also extended to their families.

Memorial Day is a day to remember those who have lost their lives in service to our country. Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center has made this giveback program part of its annual tradition to honor those men and women. This year, with our community's support, Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center hopes to increase the number of blood donations and financial support for the Special Operations Patriots Fund.

"As we commemorate Memorial Day and honor the brave men and women who have sacrificed their lives for our country, Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center is proud to support the Special Operations Patriots Fund to give back to those who have served," said Brian Gannon, CEO, and president at Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center.

Donating blood is easy and can be done once every 56 days. To donate blood, individuals must be at least 16 years old (with parental consent), weigh a minimum of 110 pounds, and be in good health. Donors must also bring a valid photo ID, eat a healthy meal, and drink plenty of fluids before donating. A typical whole blood donation takes about an hour and saves many lives.

Patients in our community rely daily on our blood donors to treat their various medical conditions, such as cancer patients needing platelets while undergoing chemotherapy, patients with blood diseases needing transfusions frequently, and patients undergoing surgeries. Blood is also critical to aid our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines that selflessly put their lives on the line for our freedoms.

"We encourage everyone to join us in this cause, as donating blood is an easy and impactful way to make a positive difference in someone's life. Together, let's show our gratitude and support for those who have served and continue to serve our nation," Gannon said.

To find a location for donation, please visit giveblood.org, and let's honor our veterans and help those in need this Memorial Day weekend.

Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center is the sole provider of blood and blood components 24/7 to more than 170 hospitals and health care facilities in a 26-county Texas Gulf Coast region. Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center is a nonprofit organization and is accredited by the Food and Drug Administration. For more information or to help save lives, visit giveblood.org.