Arizona Cardinals hosting blood drive at State Farm Stadium

The Arizona Cardinals are asking fans to boost the Phoenix area’s blood supplies by hosting a blood drive at State Farm Stadium on Wednesday, Sept. 6, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Those willing to donate must register online or over the phone. Visit the American Red Cross website in order to reserve a timeslot by using sponsor code AZCARDINALS or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Appointments are recommended.

“If not enough blood is available at any given moment, delays in patient care can have life-threatening consequences,” Vitalant chief medical and scientific officer Dr. Ralph Vassallo said in a press release.

Two types of blood donations will be available.

The standard blood donation is the most common type of donation, during which approximately a pint of “whole blood” is given. This type of blood donation usually takes about an hour. Donations can be made every 56 days, up to six times a year.

Power red donations are also available. In a power red donation, red cells are collected but most of the plasma and platelets are returned to the donor. Donors must meet specific eligibility requirements and have types O, A-negative or B-negative blood.

Donations can be made every 112 days, up to three times a year.

There are specific height and weight requirements for a power red donation.

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