Across Versiti's Wisconsin donor centers, people rolled up their sleeves. The impact is tangible:

• 262 units of red blood cells collected
• 88 platelet donations given
• 4 plasma units donated
• 770 patients who will receive the care they need

Every drop of blood collected in Milwaukee stays right here in Southeastern Wisconsin, where Versiti provides blood to 100 percent of hospitals, supporting surgery patients in the operating room, cancer patients who receive another chance at treatment, and sickle cell warriors seeking relief from debilitating pain.

Sid Rao, MD, PhD, a senior investigator, co-program lead, and interim co-director at Versiti Blood Research Institute, spent the afternoon answering phones at the WISN 12 studio. "Scientists don't just discover," he said. "We serve. We show up. And today, Milwaukee showed up."

The phones at WISN 12's studio rang 72 times on Wednesday. All told, financial donors, including matching sponsor WaterStone Bank, contributed $13,735 to support Versiti on King’s mission.

Hope Discovered in Every Drop

Twenty-two people walked into Versiti on King on Wednesday morning, curious to learn their blood type and how they can help. They left with something more: knowledge that could save lives.

Ten of them discovered they carry the Ro blood type, a rare and critically needed match for patients with sickle cell disease. Six of those people scheduled donations on the spot. 

See the Full Story

WISN 12's coverage brought the power of blood donation into Milwaukee's living rooms through a series of stories that captured why this work matters:

• The simple process that saves lives: How blood donation works and why it matters
• Versiti's dual impact: From blood services to vital research
• One patient's story: How blood donations transform life with sickle cell disease

To everyone involved in yesterday’s Day of Giving, including WISN 12, WaterStone Bank, and everyone who gave blood, answered phones, learned their blood type, or donated financially, thank you for proving that Milwaukee shows up when it matters most.

Wednesday's success creates momentum, not a finish line. Patients need blood today, tomorrow, and every day after. The mission continues, and we're ready when you are.

Schedule your next blood donation:
Visit donateblood.versiti.org/donor/schedules/zip to book your lifesaving appointment.

Support Versiti on King:
Give today to power health education, workforce development, and community resources.