For nearly a decade, Loma Linda University School of Nursing and LifeStream Blood Bank have partnered to make a life-saving impact through the annual Nursing Hearts Blood Drive. What began in 2017 as an event for nursing alumni has grown into a campus-wide and community effort, welcoming nursing students, hospital employees, alumni, and community members to give the gift of life.
Over the years, Nursing Hearts has earned a reputation as the highest-yielding blood drive on the University campus, collecting more than 100 units of blood in most years. Each donation represents an opportunity to support patients and families throughout the region — a powerful reminder of what can happen when a community comes together around a shared purpose.
This year’s drive marks an exciting first: for the first time, Nursing Hearts will be held over two days, allowing more donors to participate at a time when blood donations are especially vital. The 9th Annual Nursing Hearts Blood Drive will take place November 17 and 18, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the LLU School of Nursing.
“Loma Linda University School of Nursing has always believed that our impact extends beyond the classroom and into the communities we serve,” said Shawn Collins, PhD, Dean of the School of Nursing. “Nursing Hearts is a beautiful expression of that commitment. Through this partnership, our students, alumni, employees, and community come together to meet a very real need and make a tangible difference in the lives of others.”
For students, the event also provides a meaningful connection between their education and the profession they are preparing to enter.
“Nursing Hearts gives our students a unique opportunity to see firsthand how something as simple as donating blood can have such an important role in health care,” said Andreia Lofthouse, Assistant Dean of Student and Alumni Relations. “It helps them understand that being part of the nursing profession means more than caring for patients at the bedside — it means contributing to the health and well-being of our entire community.”
Alumni and friends are encouraged to participate in this year’s expanded drive and help Nursing Hearts continue its tradition of service.
Register to donate in advance using the link here.