Mon Health Preston Memorial Hospital Helps The American Red Cross in Critical Time of Need

Preston Memorial Hospital has been hosting blood drives in conjunction with the American Red Cross for 40 years, since 1981. The most recent drive hosted by PMH was held on Tuesday, February 9, 2021. Kim Liston, Community Programs Coordinator, stated that the turnout at the drive on February 9 was outstanding. “We set a donation goal of 29 donors and we exceeded that goal with 30 donors. The yield of our five-hour blood drive will have the potential to help up to 93 individuals.”

“In my 6 years with America Red Cross Blood Services, I have encountered very few organizations with number of years and consistent, dedicated impact as I see from PMH and this community,” remarked Ryan Edsall, Account Manager for Donor Recruitment. “The willingness of PMH employees, volunteers and Preston County community members to help others in a time of need is remarkable.”

For the past 9 years, Liston has strategically planned 6 blood drives between January and December. The American Red Cross blood donation guidelines state that donors are eligible to give every 56 days. Therefore, PMH hosts a drive approximately every 56 days. “We would not be able to host blood drives this frequently without the support of our sponsor, Matthews International Bronze Division. We are thankful for their continued support, which allows our community members to help patients in need through blood donation. Many PMH employees are impressive milestone givers.” Kathy Kline, PMH Laboratory employee, has donated 80 units, or over 10 gallons of blood. Cindy Livengood, long-time donor and now PMH volunteer, has donated 150 units, which equates to over 18 gallons of blood.

Each unit of blood donated can help up to 3 individuals suffering from a variety of conditions such as cancer, trauma, burns and chronic diseases. The American Red Cross states that less than 38% of the U.S. population are eligible donors; of those eligible, less than 10% donate on an average basis. On average, someone in the U.S. needs blood every 2 seconds.

“We are thankful to our employees, volunteers, and community members for supporting the relationship between PMH and our local American Red Cross Blood Services,” said Melissa Lockwood, Mon Health Preston Memorial Hospital Chief Administrative Officer. “The generosity of our local blood donors has helped patients within our community and throughout the region.” 

Mon Health Preston Memorial Hospital would like to invite eligible donors to their next blood drive, which is a special drive. “Our Pint-Sized Hero blood drive is partnered with Kingwood Elementary School,” said Liston. “The drive will be held on April 13, 2021, at the Kingwood Community Building from 12:00pm to 5:30pm and encourages teachers, parents, and community members to consider donating on behalf of our children.” Other PMH sponsored blood drives planned for 2021 are scheduled for June 8^th, June 29^th at Preston Memorial Hospital, August 3^rd, October 5^th, and December 7^th.