In a press release distributed this past July, the American Red Cross announced it has “faced a concerning drop in blood and platelet donations this summer” and urged the dire need for donor assistance in order to prevent a seasonal blood shortage. Following the recent shrinkage of the Red Cross’s blood supply to nearly 20%, one Las Vegas cannabis dispensary is encouraging locals to “Roll Up” their sleeves and help fight detrimental lows. The Sanctuary, a high-quality medical and recreational cannabis dispensary with two north and downtown Las Vegas locations, is hosting a “Roll It Up” mobile blood donation drive at their north Las Vegas location at 2113 N Las Vegas Blvd from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. on Friday, August 19.
Dr. Pejman Bady, DO, founder of The Sanctuary and award-winning emergency and family medicine doctor of over 29 years, is spearheading this event to promote the health and wellbeing of Las Vegas citizens in a way that allows the full community to benefit and contribute. A longtime specialist in cutting-edge stem cell and platelet-rich plasma therapy treatments, Dr. Bady is dedicated to supporting the efforts of a cause dear to his heart and welcomes the help of Nevada’s cannabis consumers. “Cannabis enthusiasts are not disqualified from giving blood. If you are in good health and meet all the eligibility requirements, you’re able to donate,” said Dr. Pejman Bady, DO. “One pint of blood has the potential to save three lives, so I’m rallying our community to help save the lives of those in our local hospitals by donating blood during this critical time.”
The acclaimed dispensary is making a commendable effort to help Southern Nevada’s hospitals replenish their supply during the current severe nationwide blood supply shortage caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. According to statistics, 700 donors are needed daily in order to meet the blood requirements of Nevada’s Southwest hospital patients and only 5% of eligible donors nationwide make an effort to donate blood.
Those who donate blood at the “Roll It Up” event are eligible to spin the wheel for a chance to win one of many appreciation gifts, such as concert tickets, swag and gift cards. Donors will also receive a $6 prepaid gift card to cover gas expenses. Complimentary refreshments and snacks will also be provided to help donors stay hydrated and refueled. A DJ and a food truck will also be on-site for all shoppers to enjoy during the event.
Those interested in donating blood at the “Roll It Up” event are urged to pre-register by visiting The Dispensary’s North Las Vegas location or by calling them directly at 702-420-2113 to schedule an appointment.
Donors who meet all eligibility requirements can donate regardless of COVID-19 vaccination status. Walk-ins that meet eligibility requirements are welcome based on availability. Donors must refrain from being under the influence of cannabis a minimum of three hours prior to donation.