Overwhelming Community Support Leads to Second Blood Bus at DeTar Hospital Navarro Blood Drive Aug. 6

7/30/2026

The community is already making a lifesaving impact before the first donor has even rolled up a sleeve.

Thanks to the incredible support of physicians, employees and staff at DeTar Hospital Navarro, all 40 available blood donation appointments for the upcoming South Texas Blood & Tissue Center Mobile Blood Drive on Thursday, Aug. 6 from 8 a.m. - 1 p.m., were reserved online well ahead of the event. The overwhelming response was so strong that the South Texas Blood & Tissue Center reached out to DeTar to ask if a second blood bus could be added to accommodate additional donors who want to give the gift of life.

While reaching the original goal before the drive is an outstanding achievement, organizers say the work is far from over.

"Our employees have once again demonstrated what it means to care for our community beyond the walls of our hospital," said Brett Maxfield, chief executive officer of DeTar Healthcare System. "Seeing every available appointment filled so quickly speaks volumes about the compassion and commitment of our team. But we know the need for blood donations remains critical throughout the Crossroads, and we're excited to have the opportunity to welcome even more donors and make an even greater impact."

The addition of a second donor bus gives community members another opportunity to help replenish the region's blood supply during a time of continued need.

"We were thrilled by the response from our DeTar family," said Lori Cantu, director of education and blood drive coordinator for DeTar Healthcare System. "Filling all 40 appointments before the event is something to celebrate, but our goal has grown. We want to take advantage of this opportunity to fill the second bus and help ensure local hospitals have the blood products they need to care for patients. Every donor truly makes a difference."

"The early response from DeTar has been incredible, and we're excited to bring a second bus so even more people can be part of this lifesaving effort," said Joby Stortz, account manager for South Texas Blood & Tissue Center. "If you're unable to donate on Aug. 6, there are plenty of opportunities to give throughout the month. Our donor room at H-E-B Plus is open seven days a week, walk-ins are always welcome, and we'll also be at the Victoria Farmers Market on Aug. 8 and Aug. 22. We encourage everyone to shop local, give local and save local—because every donation stays close to home and helps neighbors right here in the Crossroads."

South Texas Blood & Tissue Center Mobile Blood Drive at DeTar Hospital Navarro
Date: Thursday, Aug. 6, 2026
Time: 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Location: DeTar Medical Plaza Parking Area near the Java Bean entrance, DeTar Hospital Navarro, 506 E. San Antonio Street
Donor Appreciation: All eligible donors will receive a $20 e-gift card as a thank-you for their lifesaving donation.

Community members are encouraged to attend at their convenience to donate as walk-ins are welcome and help DeTar exceed its original goal by filling the second donor bus.

To schedule an appointment and learn more about becoming a blood donor, visit https://biobridgeglobal.org/donors/.

Did you know that….

• More than 25% of collected blood is used by patients battling cancer
• 45,000 units of blood are transfused every day in the U.S.
• Fewer than 3% of eligible Americans donate blood on average
• All blood types are desperately needed right now

“If you can’t donate, we urge you to help by sharing the message on social media or encouraging someone else to step up,” Stortz said.

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