TRAVERSE CITY — Every week or so if you check events on Facebook, you will see Versiti Blood Center is hosting a blood drive, whether it is from Traverse City, all the way to Grand Rapids.
This week was no different.
From 1pm until 4pm today, a Versiti bus was parked in front of the Traverse City Whiskey Co. Stillhouse. In just one hour, 10 people had already donated blood.
There are requirements to donate. People must weigh 110 pounds or more in order for there to be enough blood to donate. There is also a minimum height, but only for people 16 to 18 years old, and it varies depending on the person’s weight.,
Kevin Brainerd, who is a team lead, says that Versiti is always collecting blood for patients in Michigan, and they aren’t picky with what kind it is.
“So they’re all valuable. There’s not necessarily one best blood type. They’re all usable.” Brainerd says “We might look at more or for compatibility for certain types, but that’s more special donations for whole blood like most people come see us. That’s always useful. No matter what type you are. “
He adds that there is no need to worry if you missed this blood drive, as you can always check their website or Facebook page for more chance to donate.