Blood Donors Vital to Helping Patients Through the Holiday Season

This December, nonprofit Vitalant asks all who are eligible to schedule a blood donation appointment and help save lives. Busy schedules and travel during the late December holiday weeks typically lead to the lowest donor turnout of the year, but the need for lifesaving blood remains constant for patients. 

Jenn Dobson started 2025 with a cancer scare that turned out instead to be severe endometriosis, a painful condition. She endured surgeries and a stint in the ICU, where her heart stopped and it took 25 minutes to revive her. She also needed several units of blood. Now recovered, the longtime blood donor is ending the year with a new urgency to give back, organizing blood drives.

“I’d donated before, but after what happened, I realized how personal it really is,” Dobson said. “I thought, if I’m going to do it, I should bring people with me too.”

As an extra thank you for donating at this critical time of year, Vitalant is thanking December donors with the chance to win the Big $20,000 Giveaway*. One donor will win a prepaid gift card of their choice. 

Donors of all blood types are needed this December, especially type O and platelet donors. Type O can  help the most patients because of its compatibility. Platelets often help cancer patients, but maintaining that supply requires constant donations, because platelets must be used within a week of donation.

Giving blood in the coming days or weeks helps maintain a steady supply essential for patients battling chronic illness, undergoing surgery or recovering from traumatic injuries.

Learn more and make an appointment to give by visiting vitalant.org, download the vitalant app or call 877-25-VITAL (877-258-4825).

*Terms and conditions apply. Visit vitalant.org/holidaygiveaway.