posted January 02, 2025

Former WellFlight patient attests to importance of blood donations

LEBANON, PA – Jan. 2, 2025 – With January as National Blood Donor Month, it’s the perfect time for Air Methods’ WellSpan WellFlight air medical program to join forces with the American Red Cross for a lifesaving blood drive. The blood drive will take place on Jan. 10 from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at their base at the Lebanon Department of Emergency Services, located at 1805 Cornwall Road in Lebanon.

“One blood donation can positively impact up to three people,” said WellFlight Flight Nurse and Base Outreach Coordinator Tierany Dowd. “One person has the ability to save multiple lives – that’s a superpower if you ask me. In all seriousness, ensuring a healthy supply of blood not only for our base but for local hospitals is critical to saving lives.”

Kyle Hoover, a former WellFlight patient, knows firsthand the difference this resource can make. In March 2024, Hoover was severely injured in a motorcycle accident when he was hit by another vehicle. WellFlight’s sister base in Gettysburg responded to the call. Given the severity of his injuries, including severing the femoral artery in his leg, he required blood transfusions at the scene of the accident and in flight to the hospital.

“Having that blood supply on the helicopter was truly a lifesaver for me,” said Hoover. “I was told by a first responder that not all helicopters carry blood. But this one did, and I’m grateful.”

WellFlight carries its own blood supply, allowing its clinicians to administer it when needed while preserving hospital stock. Having blood products to administer at the scene of a traumatic event or in flight, coupled with rapid air transport, can tremendously improve the outcomes of critically ill or injured patients, which makes the need for a strong blood supply so critical.

A donation at WellFlight’s blood drive could help make a lifesaving difference just like it did for Hoover.

“This is a busy time for many,” said Laura Burke, executive director of the American Red Cross Central Pennsylvania Chapter. “In addition to travel, seasonal illness and the threat of winter weather can also lead to lower appointment numbers and decreased donor turnout. We not only appreciate our donors taking time out of their busy schedules but also appreciate our partnership with WellFlight to help spread awareness of this critical need.”

Donors will be entered for a chance to win a trip with a guest to Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans, LA. Details are available at RedCrossBlood.Org/SuperBowl. To streamline the donation experience, visit the Red Cross Rapid Pass website.