ImpactLife lab matches antibodies from donor to patient

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - ImpactLife has worked all throughout January, which is National Blood Donor Month, to get more blood donations into their facility.

"Here at this lab, our team works beyond the typical A, B, O blood types to help our most critical patients at the hospitals we serve," Jim Watts, Donor Relations Manager for ImpactLife, said.

It takes more than just matching blood types from donors to patients.

"Your blood can have many different anti-bodies," Watts said. "And when we have patients who receive multiple transfusions, those antibodies can really come into play. So, we have to test to make sure that when someone receives blood, not only are they getting the right blood type, but they're getting the right matches of antibodies beyond that."

The lab in Springfield has a board that has a running list of pediatric patients that need blood, how much they need, and what type of antibodies they have.

Watts said, "I still get goosebumps when I see this board. This really connects what the mission is about in really getting that unit of blood to that most vulnerable patient that we have."

Watts estimated that ImpactLife needs 3,500 units of blood every week.

The lab also works within different genetic boundaries and is currently working to help people with Sickle Cell disease.

Click here to find a donation location or blood drive near you.