Los Angeles Police Hold Blood Drive Competition for Cedars-Sinai Patients NA16181ml

WHAT: Six Los Angeles Police Department divisions will compete to see which can donate the most blood for patients at Cedars-Sinai. The division that collects the most units will be treated to a luncheon by Cedars-Sinai’s Blood Donor Services. Last year, the competition yielded 126 units of blood, enough to help about 250 people. Winning honors went to the Hollywood Division.

WHEN: Thursday, Aug. 25, 2016 – Hollywood Division 3:30 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Monday, Aug. 29, 2016 – Pacific Division 3:30 p.m. – 5 p.m.

WHERE: Media are invited to cover the blood donor competition at two locations: Hollywood Division 1358 North Wilcox Avenue 323-871-4076

Pacific Division 12312 Culver Boulevard 310-482-6307

WHO: As a Level 1 Trauma Center, Cedars-Sinai works closely with the Los Angeles Police Department. Perhaps no one knows better than first-responders the need for blood products in emergency situations. The LAPD has been longtime supporters of Cedars-Sinai’s Blood Donor Services, participating in numerous blood drives over the years. This year marks the 40th anniversary of Cedars-Sinai Blood Donor Services.

WHY: A single blood donation, which takes roughly 10 minutes to collect, can help save the lives of up to two people. The need for blood products is great. Each year, Cedars-Sinai patients receive transfusions totaling more than 30,000 units of red blood cells, 7,000 units of platelets and 11,000 units of plasma. These life-saving blood products come from donors who give of their time and blood, mostly for patients unknown to them.

Contact: For additional information please contact Soshea Leibler at 213-215-8000