CONVALESCENT PLASMA COLLECTED IN THE CAROLINAS

GREENVILLE, SOUTH CAROLINA (April 6, 2020) – The Blood Connection (TBC) has announced that it is collecting donations from recovered COVID-19 patients to help with research and clinical trials. The blood product, known as convalescent plasma, may have antibodies that can help those critically ill from COVID-19 to fight the virus. In a recent release the CEO of America’s Blood Centers, Kate Fry said, "This promising investigational product must get to patients without delay, and blood centers across the country have mobilized in response." The organization represents nearly 50 not-for-profit blood centers throughout the United States who collect close to 60 percent of the nation's blood supply. The Blood Connection is offering this procedure at all of their blood donation centers across South Carolina and North Carolina and are urging those who are interested, to make an appointment 28 days after they are fully recovered from the virus. Donors must have dated, written documentation of their positive test results and must make an appointment with the organization. “In this time of uncertainty, many are looking for a way to help their fellow citizens. Blood donation is a wonderful way to give back and this convalescent plasma program is another way to help save lives in your community,” said Delisa English, CEO and President of The Blood Connection. “If you have recovered from COVID-19, please consider donating plasma to help with the research that will help others to fight this virus.” If you are interested in donating convalescent plasma, please make an appointment at a center near you by calling The Blood Connection at (864)751-1168.

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About The Blood Connection
Founded in Greenville, SC, The Blood Connection has been committed to saving lives since 1962. TBC is an independently managed, not-for-profit, community blood center that provides blood products to more than 70 hospitals within Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina.

Recognized by the U.S. Congress for its dedication to disaster preparedness and the community, TBC works diligently to collect blood from volunteer donors to meet the ever-increasing demand. By keeping collections local, TBC serves hundreds of thousands of patients a year in its communities. TBC is licensed and regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. For more information, visit thebloodconnection.org.