Police Urge Public to Donate Blood

The Newport Beach Police Department is encouraging the community to help save lives at Hoag Hospital by taking the time to donate to its blood drive.

The blood drive is taking place through Friday, Sept. 28 at Hoag Hospital, 510 Superior Ave., Suite 130. Kathy Lowe, police spokeswoman, says the two organizations teamed up because of the dire need for blood.

"Hoag Hospital reached out to us through one of our department members who regularly donates blood," Lowe told Patch. "There is a serious blood shortage throughout the county and helping out our local hospital is very gratifying.

Hoag officials say the blood and platelet donations will go directly to patients at the hospital and will be used for various surgeries and cancer treatments. Hoag Hospital goes through approximately 2,000 units of blood a month, and is in critical need of blood donations.

"The hospital receives four to five donations per day that are not designated for use by a friend or family member of the donor," Mimi Bui, Hoag spokeswoman, said. "However, just one person can require up to 25 times more blood. That leaves very little supply for the upwards of 35 patients that come into the hospital each day needing blood." 

Blood donations are being accepted Mondays & Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 6:45 p.m., and Tuesdays, Wednesdays, & Fridays from 8 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. Appointments are requested, to schedule email donateblood@hoag.org or call 949-764-5621. In addition to helping save a life, donors will receive a free movie ticket.