Sharks usually get our hearts pumping.
So for The American Red Cross, joining forces with the Discovery Channel for a blood drive during “Shark Week” seemed like a natural fit.
The Red Cross essentially kicked off its blood-drive partnership with Discovery — tied to next week’s seven-day ode to the ocean’s apex predators — during a Monday, July 18, event at the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium in San Pedro.
It was the first time the organization teamed up with Discovery for the Shark Week connection. The aquarium included some shark displays for the occasion.
Participants — all 28 appointments were filled and there were several walk-ins as well — received a Red Cross “Shark Week” T-shirt and fin hat.
The event and the blood drive, which runs through the end of the month, is aimed at preventing the often-frequent summer blood shortages.
At least part of the reason for the summer shortage, according to the Red Cross, is that as school ends, families start taking holiday trips and are no longer in town.
The Discovery Channel’s “Shark Week” will take place from Sunday, July 24, to July 30 and will feature a lineup of shark-themed programming.
Those who give blood by July 31 at an American Red Cross location will be automatically entered into a chance to win more Shark Week merchandise, including a stand-up paddle board, beach cruiser bicycle, smokeless portable fire pit, one-seater kayak and a $500 gift card to put toward outdoor accessories.
Those wo give blood from Thursday to Sunday, July 21-24, will also receive a “Shark Week” T-shirt.
Other locations where blood drives are being held include:
- Torrance American Red Cross, 2814 Sepulveda Blvd.
- Long Beach Donation Center, 3150 E. 29th St.
- Pasadena American Red Cross, 2471 E. Walnut St., Suite 103.
- Woodland Hills Blood Donation Center, 21333 Oxnard St.
To find more locations throughout Southern California, go to redcrossblood.org.
Participants may still donate blood after receiving a COVID-19 vaccination.
“The Red Cross is teaming up with Discovery and Shark Week to help avoid frequent summer blood shortages,” said Rob Bahler, the American Red Cross Los Angeles Region’s blood services district manager. “We encourage community members to help save lives with a blood or platelet donation this month. An appointment made could mean a life saved.”