On Sunday, July 9, 2023, the Intl. WeLoveU Foundation hosted the 584th Worldwide Blood Drive in Chicago, IL, with Versiti. Celebrating their 10th annual collaboration, WeLoveU and Versiti hosted this year’s blood drive at the American Airlines Conference Center at Gallagher Way. Multiple WeLoveU chapters and Versiti blood centers across the Midwest united to fulfill the goal of donating as much blood as possible. Participants traveled from Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and Michigan. Their efforts collected 1,615 units of blood, a figure that is expected to help save over 4,845 lives.

The event started before 9 a.m., with participants lining up outside the venue’s doors, ready to donate. Fox32 Chicago aired the news of the 584th Worldwide Blood Drive before doors opened. During an interview, Emily Alanis, the regional manager of Versiti donor recruitment, pinpointed the event’s goal. “We’re hoping to impact over 1,000 lives with the blood drive today. I would say it’s another way to get a “W” in Wrigleyville!”

The goal is to spread awareness about the importance of donating blood and taking action, which can lead to saving a life. In one case in particular, a brave sickle cell warrior shared their personal journey at Gallagher Way. They explained how sickle cell patients often rely on blood transfusions to stave off complications from the disease. Their story serves as a reminder of the critical importance of giving blood.

The International WeLoveU Foundation is deeply committed to raising awareness and supporting hospitals, blood centers, and, most importantly, patients in need of blood. These efforts support Sustainable Development Goal #3, Good Health and Well-being. Globally, WeLoveU has held small to large-scale blood drives since 2004. In the U.S., WeLoveU has saved over 15,000 lives with blood drives since 2018.