The new vehicle was made possible through donations from three foundations.
City of Hope, one of the nation’s largest cancer research and treatment organizations, recently unveiled a state-of-the-art bloodmobile that will help patients with cancer in need of blood transfusion. Both cancer and its treatment can impact blood cell production. Blood transfusions replenish patient’s blood supply and support necessary treatment by decreasing the risk of potential complications caused by a low blood count.
The bloodmobile debuted at a blood drive hosted at City of Hope Orange County Lennar Foundation Cancer Center, the most advanced comprehensive cancer center in Orange County.
“Our new bloodmobile provides a comfortable environment for donors, including our donating staff and clinicians,” said Jennifer S. Woo, M.D., City of Hope Orange County’s medical director of blood bank and transfusion services. “This is exciting news for our patients and all those in our community who want to support them by donating blood. In general, if you are in good health, you can give blood and save a life. We are also pleased to share that the FDA recently finalized recommendations for assessing blood donor eligibility using a set of individual risk-based questions to reduce the risk of transfusion-transmitted HIV. These questions are the same for every donor, regardless of sexual orientation, sex or gender.”
City of Hope’s blood donor program collects daily blood and platelet donations for patients receiving chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Donated blood is also utilized in cancer surgeries and other cancer treatments. Each contribution is essential in providing lifesaving care to patients.
The new vehicle was made possible through the generous support of the Orange County-based Henry L. Guenther Foundation, the Ahmanson Foundation, and an anonymous third foundation. "We are honored to contribute to this initiative that will undoubtedly save lives and strengthen community health," said Susanne Sundberg, chairman of the Henry L. Guenther Foundation. "City of Hope's dedication to providing leading-edge cancer care aligns perfectly with our philanthropic mission. Our hope is that this bloodmobile will not only increase the organization's capacity but also inspire others to come forward and be part of this life-saving cause."
The bloodmobile’s debut coincided with the one-year anniversary of the grand opening of City of Hope Orange County Lennar Foundation Cancer Center which, together with City of Hope’s regional clinics located throughout the county, offers patients a comprehensive network of advanced cancer care including breakthrough research and treatment, leading-edge technology, precision medicine and more. Construction is underway on Orange County's only specialty cancer hospital focused exclusively on treating and curing cancer, set to open in 2025. Together, the cancer center, the regional clinics and the specialty cancer hospital will create Orange County’s largest network dedicated exclusively to cancer treatment and cures.
Start your blood donation to City of Hope today. Visit idonateblood4hope.org to schedule an appointment or learn more about hosting a blood drive with the new vehicle.