Commemorative Week to Honor Blood Collectors

Not one day goes by without a blood collector making a difference in the lives of donors and patients.

In order to recognize the contributions of phlebotomists, apheresis operators and all others involved in the process of blood collection, AABB and Fenwal Inc. are once again sponsoring the fourth annual National Blood Collectors Week, an event designed to celebrate the blood collection profession and its importance to donors and patients nationwide.

During the celebration — which takes place Sept. 14-20 — blood collection facilities will host activities designed to recognize the vital role blood collectors play in securing a safe and adequate blood supply by creating positive experiences for donors.

“Blood collection professionals are integral to the donation process,” AABB CEO Karen Shoos Lipton said. “The professionalism these dedicated individuals exude helps to ensure repeat donations, which is central to maintaining an adequate blood supply that is readily available whenever and wherever our communities need it.”

To help prepare for National Blood Collectors Week, AABB and Fenwal Inc. are encouraging blood centers to take advantage of free registration on the Blood Collectors Week Web site. The site currently has a wealth of information — including marketing and promotional materials, and ideas for special activities — but registered facilities also will benefit from regular updates and receive complimentary giveaways for staff members.

In addition, blood centers are encouraged to share their success stories of collectors who have gone above and beyond in their daily responsibilities. Stories as well as photos from this year’s Blood Collectors Week events may be submitted online at www.bloodcollectors.org.