News and Events

NEWARK, DE - The Blood Bank of Delmarva "ALYX All-Stars" are champions in the March Match-up Challenge, a competition between 28 blood bank teams nationwide to "slam-dunk" the most double red blood cell (ALYX) donations. The challenge mirrored the NCAA's March Madness and put two brackets of teams against each other for 8 weeks of competition. The Blood Bank team took home first place with the highest percentage of successfully completed double red blood cell donations in the playoffs - at 97%. More than 320 blood donors took part in this competition.

PICTURED: Phlebotomist Kathy Armstrong with an ALYX donor.

Unlike a whole blood donation, an ALYX donation collects two units of red blood cells - the most commonly transfused component - instead of one. Specialized equipment separates the red blood cells and returns the other blood components (plasma and platelets) to the donor. ALYX donations allow the Blood Bank to collect more blood and save more lives during one donor visit.

"Moving from the Sweet Sixteen to the Elite Eight and then on to the finals, this was a fun competition with a serious purpose. We are extremely proud of the outcome," said Margaret Hannan, Regional Supervisor for Blood Bank of Delmarva's Donor Services. "Winning the challenge is a direct result of our loyal blood donors, dedicated staff, and the efficient use of our life-saving resources. Ultimately, it is the patients in this area who benefit."

The March Match-up Challenge was the brainchild of Fenwal, Inc., the company that manufactures ALYX equipment. The Blood Bank has two ALYX machines at its Christiana Center and two at its Salisbury, Maryland center.