Wessington Springs Community Blood Drive Collects 11 Units Amid Seasonal Illnesses
Dear Editor:
Community members stepped forward to help save lives at the Wessington Springs Community Blood Drive held on February 10. Despite a challenging season marked by widespread illnesses, 19 individuals attempted to donate, resulting in 11 units of blood collected, which will help impact up to 33 patients in need.
The blood drive was sponsored by Avera Weskota Memorial Hospital and coordinated by Ellen Powell, whose continued leadership supports a strong local blood donation tradition. LifeServe Blood Center also extends sincere appreciation to the county for the use of the 4H Building, where community drives are held, and to Mette Ness for coordinating the facility and ensuring everything was ready for donors and staff.
Blood Drive Impact Summary
Registered Donors: 19 Successful Donors: 12 Units Collected: 11 Lives Impacted: Up to 33
Milestone Donors – The Backbone of the Blood Supply
LifeServe Blood Center proudly recognizes donors reaching important milestones at this drive: 5-Gallon Donor: BECKY KRUEGER 9-Gallon Donor: DONNA WAGNER
Milestone donors truly are the backbone of the blood supply, and their continued commitment ensures blood is available when patients need it most.
While collections were lower than we typically see, it truly says a lot about this community that 19 individuals showed up willing to donate. Seasonal illnesses played a significant role in the number of deferrals we experienced. This time of year is always one of the most difficult for blood collection, but the willingness of donors to come out and try speaks volumes about the heart of Wessington Springs.
Even 11 units can help up to 33 patients. Every donation matters — especially during challenging seasons like this.
2026 Wessington Springs Area Blood Drive Dates Community Blood Drives (4H Building):
June 9, 2026 | 12:30 p.m. – 5:40 p.m.
August 11, 2026 | 12:30 p.m. – 5:40 p.m.
December 14, 2026 | 12:30 p.m. – 5:40 p.m.
High School Blood Drives (Rec Center):
April 8, 2026 | 10:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
October 14, 2026 | 10:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
How to Schedule an Appointment
Community members can schedule a blood donation appointment by visiting www. lifeservebloodcenter.org or by calling 800-287-4903. Donors are encouraged to eat a healthy meal, stay well-hydrated, and bring a photo ID to their appointment.
Abbie Arneson LifeServe Blood Center Territory Representative
