Citrus Heights City Council member Tim Schaefer. Photo courtesy of City of Citrus Heights

CITRUS HEIGHTS, CA (MPG) - Just a single donation of blood can help save multiple lives. It’s a simple, powerful way to give back to the community and those most in need.

The City of Citrus Heights is partnering with Vitalant to host a blood drive in the conference room at Citrus Heights City Hall, 6360 Fountain Square Drive, from noon to 6 p.m. Friday, May 15. First-time and regular donors can register to make an advance appointment at: www.vitalant.org

The blood drive is inspired by the Citrus Heights City Council’s support of fellow member Tim Schaefer as he undergoes cancer treatment, said Marisa Brown, city communications officer.

“City staff have been invited to participate by donating blood if they are able and will also be supporting the event by assisting at the registration table,” Brown said.

Schaefer announced at a City Council meeting on Feb. 11 that he has been diagnosed with Hairy Cell Leukemia (HCL), a highly treatable cancer of the white blood cells which has a strong survival rate. He told colleagues and the public that he plans to continue to serve in office while undergoing treatment.

Schaefer was first elected to the City Council in November 2020 to represent District 3 and re-elected in November 2024.

Brown said that Schaefer has experienced the importance of a reliable blood supply first-hand and the impact available blood donations have on both patients and their families.

Schaefer has had difficulty with blood transfusions because he has a rare blood type that is difficult to acquire. He encourages everyone to take time to donate blood, not just for him, but for everyone who will need blood at some point in time.

“It’s especially hard for me to accept blood when a child, somebody much younger than myself, is in more urgent need,” he said.

“For the most up-to-date information on Councilmember Schaefer’s well-being, we recommend contacting him directly at [email protected],” Brown said. “He really does appreciate the well wishes of everyone.”

According to Vitalant, blood donations are essential for ongoing cancer treatments, emergency care, surgeries and more. Able community members are encouraged to participate and donate to ensure supplies of this vital resource are available to those who need it most.

“The upcoming blood drive at Citrus Heights City Hall recognizes the ongoing need for blood donations across the region. Blood donations are essential for patients of all ages facing cancer, emergencies, surgeries and other serious medical conditions,” Brown said.

According to Vitalant, much of the U.S. population is eligible to give blood, but only about three percent do. Blood has a shelf life. Red blood cells can be used for up to 42 days, and platelets need to be used in five. All blood types are needed, including the most common blood types, according to Vitalant.

The donation process takes about an hour from completing the health history questionnaire through the medical screening and post-donation refreshments and snacks, according to a local Vitalant representative.

Interested donors can complete a health screening questionnaire at www.vitalant.org and register for an appointment in advance. Appointments can be scheduled by phone at: 877-258-4825. Walk-ins are welcome as space allows.

Vitalant asks donors to bring a valid photo ID, eat a healthy meal prior to donating and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Ongoing blood donations are also accepted at Vitalant’s Fair Oaks donation center at 11713 Fair Oaks Blvd. in Fair Oaks.