In an effort to help maintain a sufficient blood supply and to avoid a potential shortage during these uncertain times, the Philadelphia Eagles and the American Red Cross, with the support of Budweiser, hosted a community blood drive in the Touchdown Club at Lincoln Financial Field on Thursday, April 16. The blood drive screened 100 donors and collected 74 pints of blood, which has the potential to help up to 222 patients.
As concerns around COVID-19 continue to rise around the country, the need to sustain a stable blood supply for patients with life-threatening conditions is critical at this time. The need for blood remains constant throughout the year, as volunteer donors serve as the only blood source for individuals relying on transfusions.
"We are incredibly grateful to everyone who responded so quickly to this emergency call and donated blood in support of the American Red Cross, including more than 70 Eagles employees and their families," said Chairman and CEO Jeffrey Lurie. "This drive comes at a critical time where the need for blood is at an all-time high, so we are proud to offer our assistance to the Red Cross in meeting that demand and helping to replenish the nation's blood supply. We are all deeply inspired and touched by the community's rapid response to this lifesaving service, which meets the everyday needs of patients in our hospitals. We were all witnesses to the very best of humanity thanks to the collective effort and support of everyone involved."
According to the Red Cross, the need for blood in the U.S. occurs every two seconds and with every blood donation, up to three lives can be saved. Approximately 36,000 units of red blood cells are needed every day in the U.S. and roughly 40 percent of our nation's blood and blood components – collected from volunteer donors – are provided by the Red Cross.
"Many thanks to the Philadelphia Eagles for stepping up to host this community blood drive and to the amazing fans who generously came out to donate," said Guy Triano, CEO, Red Cross Southeastern Pennsylvania Region. "Your commitment helps ensure that hospital patients across the region will continue to have access to the vital treatments they need. Thanks for being part of our lifesaving team."
To ensure the health and safety of all volunteer donors and Red Cross staff, and in accordance with guidance from medical experts, Thursday's blood drive observed proper mitigation and "social distancing" protocol. The size of Lincoln Financial Field and the operational set-up ensured that these safety measures were being followed so that the greatest number of donors could be accommodated in a safe and secure environment.
