Versiti Blood Center of Illinois Holds Annual Dennis Buckley Memorial Blood Drive at the 2020 Chicago Auto Show
Life-saving blood donations needed in the Chicagoland area
Aurora, IL (Jan. 30, 2020) - Versiti Blood Center of Illinois and the Chicago Automobile Trade Association are saving lives and honoring a long-time leader with the Dennis Buckley Memorial Blood Drive Feb. 8-17 during the Chicago Auto Show at McCormick Place.
For many years, Buckley helped lead the auto show and was the driving force behind its blood drives. After his 2004 passing from cancer, the drive was named in his honor. Every Valentine’s Day, Buckley’s wife, Lauren, donates blood at the drive to honor his life-saving legacy. She will continue that tradition this year when she donates on Feb. 14 at Versiti’s booth #NH190 at around 1 p.m.
“When I donate, I think about how grateful Dennis was for blood donors that helped him through his treatment – and how happy he would be to know that his passion fuels our commitment to save lives through his blood drive,” said Lauren.
“Our partnership with Versiti Blood Center of Illinois has resulted in thousands of lives saved, thanks to the generosity of attendees who’ve take part in our blood drives at the Chicago Auto Show over the past 20 years. It’s heartwarming to know the impact we’re having and being able to pay tribute to Dennis Buckley by naming the blood drives in his honor makes it all the more inspirational,” said Chicago Auto Show General Manager David Sloan.
Versiti Blood Center of Illinois will wheel in two of its 40-foot mobile coach buses as the backdrop for the 10-day drive on the show floor. All attempting blood donors will receive a Dennis Buckley Memorial Blood Drive long sleeve t-shirt. Donors that make an appointment prior to their donation will also receive a free auto show ticket (while supplies last). Donations can be made Feb. 8-16 between 10 a.m.-8 p.m. and on Feb. 17 between 10 a.m.-6 p.m. To make an appointment, call 1-800-7TO-GIVE (1-800-786-4483) or visit versiti.org/Illinois.
Blood Typing Event
With Valentine’s Day approaching, Versiti Blood Center of Illinois wants you to know that you’re somebody’s type when it comes to blood donation. If you don’t know your blood type, you can find out on February 12. The blood-typing will take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
All those who stop in for typing at Versiti Blood Center of Illinois’ booth #NH190 will receive a box of Valentine’s Day chocolates. The process takes about 15 minutes, and you can learn your blood type immediately.
There are many patients with rare or uncommon blood types that rely on blood donors with their same type. Patients with rare or uncommon blood types rely on our experts at Versiti Blood Center of Illinois to identify matching donors who can provide life-saving treatment.
As the blood products supplier to 71 hospitals in Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana, the need for blood is constant. All blood types are needed, but especially type O negative, which is the universal type that can be safely received by all patients and is given to those undergoing surgery, kids and adults battling cancer and those in emergency situations.
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