Heartland Blood Centers Heads to Minooka Saturday in Search of Donors

MINOOKA, IL — Those wanting to give back this weekend can donate blood at a local drive sponsored by one of Minooka's key community organizations.

Coordinators through the Knights of Columbus Our Lady of Knock Council No. 12882 from St. Mary's of Minooka are welcoming Heartland Blood Center helpers this Saturday, April 1.

Heartland Blood Centers is a non-profit medical organization providing blood and blood products to more than 70 hospitals in northern Illinois and northwest Indiana. As of Wednesday, the organization's highest need was for O negative blood — among the rarer types — according to its website.

"As an O Negative donor, you have a special gift to share with others," it says. "Your red blood cells can help anyone in need, regardless of that person’s own blood type. In emergency situations, when a patient’s blood type cannot be determined, it’s O Negative red blood cells to the rescue!"

The rarest blood type of them all is AB negative with only 2 percent of the population holding its remarkable power to be used in any recipient, regardless of his or her own type.

Those wanting to donate in Minooka this weekend must make an appointment in advance, according to a community alert. The drive will take place from 7:30 a.m. to noon in the community room of the Village of Minooka hall, 121 McEvilly Road.

Donors should call John at 815-325-8409 to schedule their visits.

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