West Jordan to host blood drive


Linda Steele | [email protected]

The blood drive is a way to help those in need and in emergencies. There is a severe blood shortage right now. The residents of West Jordan are giving back to the community by teaming up with the Utah Red Cross to donate to the Blood Drive. 

“We’ve had a great turnout the last two blood drives we’ve held, and we expect that trend to continue,” said Marie Titze, digital communication specialist. The blood drive is being held in the community room at West Jordan City Hall (8000 South Redwood Road) Dec. 6, noon to 6 p.m. An appointment is required; visit westjordan.utah.gov to make one. Masks will be required for participants. 

Many people need blood right now. It is a great way to give back to the community and help those in need. Titze said West Jordan residents are glad to do the blood drive because it gives them a sense of community and that it is a great feeling to know they are saving lives. It will take about an hour, maybe a little longer out of your day to donate and give someone another chance at life. West Jordan officials reached out to the Red Cross to partner in a blood drive late last year. 

“We knew the need for blood and wanted to make the donation process easy and accessible to residents who wanted to participate,” Titze said. 

Deciding to donate your blood can save a life, or several lives. In fact, every two seconds of every day, someone needs blood. Your blood can be separated into its components such as red cells, platelets and plasma, which then can be used individually for patients with specific conditions. 

There are at least three reasons to donate blood. First, you could be prone to diseases such as cirrhosis of the liver, cancer and heart attacks. By donating blood, you are able to get rid of 225–250 milligrams of iron, which helps to prevent your body from iron overload. Secondly, you can lower your cholesterol and get rid of lipids or fatty substances. This is important so fat deposits don’t accumulate in your arteries. This helps lower your cholesterol level and reduce your risk for heart disease. Lastly, donating blood can help your mental well-being. Knowing that you are helping a person in need can be gratifying and uplifting. These three reasons are good to know what donating blood does to help those in need and save lives. 

Certain conditions should prevent a person from temporarily donating blood. These include pregnancy, acute fever, recent alcoholic intake and ear- or body-piercing surgery.

The national Voluntary Blood Services Program suggests a person shouldn’t donate blood in the following situations: 

• Cancer
• Cardiac disease
• Severe lung disease
• Hepatitis B and C
• HIV, AIDS or STDs
• High-risk occupation (prostitution)
• Unexplained weight loss of 11 or more pounds in six months 
• Chronic alcoholism 

You can check with your doctor if you feel like you need to make sure you can donate. 

Remember, whenever you donate blood, you’re giving someone the opportunity to have a new lease on life, not to mention that you’re also giving your overall health a great boost. Consider donating Dec. 6.