BLOOD BANK TEAM WINS NATIONAL DONATION COMPETITION FOR SECOND YEAR
Team to receive trophy on July 6
NEWARK, DE - Blood Bank of Delmarva has become a national champion again in the "Spring Match-Up" Challenge - a competition against other blood centers in the United States to process the most double red blood cell donations (ALYX) procedures per instrument. There will be a brief ceremony and celebration on Monday, July 6 at Noon at the Blood Bank's Christiana Center (100 Hygeia Drive in Newark).
Unlike a whole blood donation, an ALYX donation collects two units of red cells - the most commonly transfused component - instead of one. It allows the Blood Bank to collect more blood and save more lives during one donor visit.
"Taking home the trophy for the second year in a row makes us so proud. It's a direct result of our loyal blood donors, dedicated staff, and the efficient use of our lifesaving resources," said Margaret Hannan, Regional Supervisor for Blood Bank of Delmarva's Donor Services. "Ultimately, the patients in this area benefit."
The Challenge mirrors the NCAA's March Madness and puts two brackets of blood bank teams against each other for 8 weeks of competition. Blood Bank of Delmarva's team, "The Smart ALYX from Delmarva," and local donors won for the second year in a row. More than 300 blood donors contributed to the win.
The Spring 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 Donor Center and two at its Salisbury Donor Center. The specialized equipment separates the red cells and returns the other blood components (plasma and platelets) to the donor.
For more information on how to become an ALYX donor or to make an appointment to give blood, click HERE or call 1 888 8-BLOOD-8.
