(Evansville) – Evansville Platelet donor Mary Deutsch is the grand prize winner of the American Red Cross River Valley Blood Services Region Focus on Saving Lives summer promotion!
Thousands entered the contest this summer by presenting to donate blood or platelets. Three finalists’ names were drawn on Saturday night at the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Light the Night Walk in Louisville, KY. Deutsch pulled the winning key that started the 2010 Ford Focus. The other two finalists, Amanda Norman and Paula White each won a $500 gas card.
Deutsch and her husband have both been whole blood donations through the American Red Cross since the 1970’s. Most recently, Mary became a platelet donor since the 1990’s. Her entry winning donation took place on July 27th when she rolled up her sleeve to give the gift of life and was entered in the Focus On Saving Lives Promotion.
How to Donate Blood
Simply call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license, or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental permission in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
About the American Red Cross
Governed by volunteers and supported by giving individuals and communities, the American Red Cross is the single largest supplier of blood products to hospitals throughout the United States. While local hospital needs are always met first, the Red Cross also helps ensure no patient goes without blood no matter where or when they need it. In addition to providing nearly half of the nation’s blood supply, the Red Cross provides relief to victims of disaster, trains millions in lifesaving skills, serves as a communication link between U.S. military members and their families, and assists victims of international disasters or conflicts.
