Behind every blood donation is a story.
Some stories begin with a donor rolling up a sleeve at a community blood drive. Others begin in a hospital room where blood products are needed unexpectedly. While those stories may never cross paths, they are connected by a simple act of generosity.
This month, we’re highlighting some of the people, events, and partnerships that help turn blood donations into a life-saving impact.
Thank you for being part of those stories.
With appreciation,
Your Blood Bank Family
Blood usage is unusually high and we need your donation.
Blood Types Especially Needed: A-, B-, O-, O+
Schedule Your Donation Today!
(619) 400-8251 | Find a Donor Center | Find a Blood Drive
News
Thousands Answer the Call at Our 50th Comic-Con Blood Drive
Last month, thousands of heroes answered the call at our 50th Robert A. Heinlein Comic-Con® Blood Drive, helping us collect more than 3,500 pints of blood during the five-day event.
For five decades, this iconic community tradition has united Comic-Con fans and blood donors around a shared mission: saving lives. Thanks to everyone who donated, volunteered, and supported this historic milestone. Because of you, we strengthened the local blood supply during one of the most challenging times of year for blood donation.
We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who helped make our 50th drive a success. Because of donors like you, this extraordinary tradition continues to make a life-saving difference.
Give Blood. Rep Your School. Save Lives.
Students, alumni, and fans are encouraged to give blood as part of The We Give Blood Drive, a nationwide campaign powered by Abbott and the Big Ten Conference®.
Support patients in need while showing your school pride. Donors can credit their donation to the Big Ten® school of their choice and claim an exclusive Big Ten T-shirt, while supplies last through December 4, 2026.*
Whether you’re cheering for your alma mater or simply looking for another reason to donate, every donation helps ensure blood is available when patients need it most.
*For complete campaign details, visit BigTen.org/Abbott.
Local Heroes, One Mission
Sometimes, special moments happen by chance.
These dedicated blood donors, all members of our Guardians Circle donor appreciation program, happened to be donating at the same time and gathered for a quick photo. Together, they represent the community of committed donors whose generosity helps ensure blood is available for local patients every day.
We’re grateful for these donors and everyone who makes lifesaving blood donations part of their routine.
Interested in learning more about the Guardians Circle and donor appreciation opportunities? Visit sandiegobloodbank.org/donors/donor-appreciation/.
Mark Your Calendar
PROMOTION: SEPTEMBER 1 – 30, 2026
Six Years. Six Haunted Houses. One Epic Reveal.
Saving lives with us isn’t scary—unless you want it to be!
Donate blood Sept 1 – 30, 2026 and get a ticket* to Howl-O-Scream at SeaWorld San Diego featuring the largest lineup in event history, including an all-new sixth haunted house.
Schedule your appointment today:
sandiegobloodbank.org/donate
*Tickets are available while supplies last. Howl-O-Scream is a separately ticketed event. Restrictions may apply. Vouchers are non-transferable, not redeemable for cash, and not for resale. © United Parks & Resorts, Inc.
For more information, visit: sandiegobloodbank.org/howloscream
LAST CHANCE: MARVEL® SPIDER-MAN® T-SHIRT
Final Days to Get Yours!
With great power comes great responsibility… and the opportunity to save lives.
Donate blood by August 31, 2026 and get your limited-edition Marvel Spider-Man T-shirt* before this offer ends. Supplies are limited.
Featured Story: A Second Chance Thanks to Blood Donors
In December 2020, Jason contracted COVID-19 and was hospitalized after struggling to breathe. He spent two months in a medically induced coma and received COVID convalescent plasma and approximately 80 blood transfusions during his recovery.
When doctors gave Jason just a 15% chance of survival, blood donors played a critical role in helping save his life. Today, he is thriving and remains grateful to the people whose donations made his recovery possible.
Jason’s story is especially meaningful to us because he is the father of one of our team members. It’s a powerful reminder that the impact of blood donation reaches into every corner of our community, including our own blood bank family.
