Letter: Raise your sleeve, give blood

To the editor:

Another successful year wrapped up our Bleed Blue Blood Drive and the Donor Center Days that followed. It was my privilege to cheer on our 350 employees in all our locations and the 3,091 Hoosiers who raised their sleeves to give back for one purpose: to give blood and to give life.

As a nonprofit community service organization, we succeed only through widespread community support and the lifesaving networks across the state. This wonderful Hoosier spirit of volunteerism and service has a direct impact on the hospitals we serve.

When a hospital calls in the middle of the night to request blood and platelets due to a traumatic accident, Indiana Blood Center is ready to respond thanks to the support of our dedicated donors. And we can respond quickly because we are here locally in your community when and where you need us most.

When a rare blood type or complex blood product is required to treat a patient, like those cared for by Riley Hospital for Children at IU Health, Indiana Blood Center is at the ready. From cancer patients of all ages to life-threatening traumas, Indiana Blood Center is here to help physicians save lives — anyone, anywhere, any time.

Just as we have for more than 60 years, Indiana Blood Center stands committed to the safe and stable supply of blood. For those Hoosiers who have yet to raise their sleeves, we ask you to join this lifesaving network. Please give back, give blood and give life -– through Indiana Blood Center.

Dr. Charlie Miraglia

president and CEO,

Indiana Blood Center