Stanford Blood Center is facing an urgent need for all blood types and is asking residents to come out and donate to meet the immediate needs of local patients. Currently, all blood types are needed — especially O positive (O ) and O negative (O-). Blood donors are strongly encouraged to give in the coming days to help replenish the blood supply to sustainable levels.

Blood donation appointments can be made through the online scheduler for the Menlo Park donor center or call 888-723-7831.

Health benefits from donating blood: 

• Satisfaction of saving lives of many people and helping others. 
• Calorie burn: blood donation process burns 650 calories, which is about the same as an average spin class. 
• Reduced risk of heart disease: helps eliminate excess buildup of iron in the blood. 
• Reduced risk of cancer: also due to reduction of excess iron buildup in the blood. 
• Stimulates blood cell production: after donating blood, the body works to replenish the blood loss. This stimulates the production of new blood cells and in turn, helps in maintaining good health.

After your blood donation: 

• Always be sure to drink plenty of water to rehydrate. 
• Sit down or lie down if you feel lightheaded or dizzy. 
• Rest and replenish iron: take an iron supplement or eat foods rich in iron combined with a source of vitamin C after your donation. 

If you have questions about your eligibility to donate due to recent COVID-19 vaccination or potential COVID-19 exposure visit the FAQ on COVID-19 and blood donation webpage.