Wheels vs. Rotors Blood Drive invites the community to give the gift of life in honor of REACT helicopter transport program’s 40th anniversary

Mercyhealth, in partnership with the Rock River Valley Blood Center and the REACT flight crew, will host a Wheels vs. Rotors EMS Blood Drive on December 8 from 3-7 pm at Javon Bea Hospital-Riverside, 8201 E. Riverside Blvd., Rockford. Held in recognition of the REACT helicopter transport program, the REACT team invites emergency medical services professionals, community members, hospital staff and supporters to take part in a friendly competition for a lifesaving cause. Participants can show their support for the Ground Transport Team (Wheels) or the REACT helicopter crew (Rotors) by selecting their team when registering.

The blood drive comes at a critical time for patients and hospitals across the country. In July 2026, the American Red Cross declared a national blood crisis for only the second time in its history after donations fell to a four-year summer low and the nation's blood supply dropped to dangerously low levels.

Blood donations are vital to treating patients experiencing traumatic injuries, undergoing surgery, fighting cancer, facing complications during childbirth and managing other serious medical conditions. For emergency and trauma patients, blood products can mean the difference between life and death.

The Wheels vs. Rotors blood drive reflects the shared mission of EMS professionals, health care providers and blood donors to save lives and strengthen the communities they serve. As the REACT program celebrates four decades of providing critical care and emergency transport, this event offers the community a meaningful opportunity to honor that legacy and help ensure blood is available for patients who need it the most.

Register to donate online by visiting RRVCB.org or calling 815-965-8751. Walk-ins are always welcome.