Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
LAS VEGAS (Oct. 23, 2023) — The American Red Cross of Southern Nevada is partnering with Mandalay Bay's Shark Reef Aquarium for a special blood drive event. The event, aptly themed around the adrenaline-inducing creatures, will take place on Friday, Oct. 27, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Mandalay Bay North Convention Center.
“As we approach the end of October, we strongly encourage potential donors to help us replenish our blood supplies,” said Rachel Flanigan, Executive Director of the American Red Cross, Southern Nevada Chapter. “Our partnership with the Shark Reef allows us to provide critical medical care to patients while also offering a unique experience for our donors.”
All donors will receive complimentary admission to the Shark Reef Aquarium and the Undersea Explorer Virtual Reality Theater. The theater is an immersive experience center features state-of-the-art VR technology that virtually transports guests to the depths of the ocean. Additionally, donors will have their parking fees waived at the blood drive.
Make your appointment today for the Shark Reef drive
Donors can schedule an appointment using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Use sponsor code HALLOWREEF when booking for Friday's blood drive or find another drive that suits your schedule.
The Red Cross is currently facing a blood donation shortfall due to reduced summer donations and numerous blood drive cancellations caused by natural disasters. While all blood types are needed, there is a critical need for type O donors. Type O positive is the most frequently transfused blood type, while O negative serves as the universal donor and often used in emergency situations when the patient's blood type cannot be quickly determined.
“The timing of this event is crucial as we continue to recover from a significant shortfall in donations,” Flanigan said. “Low blood supply levels can jeopardize patient care in hospitals, particularly during emergencies or major surgeries that can require large amounts of blood.”
Nevada Day tradition
Historically, the Shark Reef blood drive has been held on the last Friday in October, which coincides with Nevada Day. This day marks the commemoration of Nevada becoming the 36th state on Oct. 31, 1864. On Nevada Day, state, county and city governments are closed, including schools and libraries. “With children out of school for the holiday, parents can use this opportunity to show their children about the importance of blood donation and its impact on the community,” Flanigan said. “By the time they turn 17, they'll be ready to start donating themselves.”
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.