Miller-Keystone Blood Center and the American Cancer Society are inviting everyone to turn hope into action by donating blood, platelets or plasma at the first-ever “Relay Blood Challenge” 6:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 12.

According to Pete Castagna, president and CEO, Miller-Keystone Blood Center, voluntary blood donation plays a crucial role in the treatment of cancer patients.

“Cancer patients often require red blood cells, platelets or plasma during the course of their care,” explained Castagna, noting that cancer patients are the No. 1 usage group for blood products transfused. “Our goal is to collect 500 units of blood during the Relay Blood Challenge, to help ensure that lifesaving blood products are available for the next person in need.”

“The American Cancer Society is pleased to be partnering with Miller-Keystone Blood Center for outreach into the communities we serve,” said Courtney Totten, community manager, Relay For Life. “The available blood supply is vital to cancer patients every day. With this opportunity, American Cancer Society volunteers and supporters are able to give back in a very personal way by donating blood.”

On Saturday, Sept. 12, blood donations can be made between 6:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. at the following locations:

• Bethlehem – Miller-Keystone Blood Center, 1465 Valley Center Parkway

• Allentown – Miller-Keystone Blood Center, 1255 S. Cedar Crest Blvd., Suite 1300

• Easton – Miller-Keystone Blood Center, 2925 William Penn Highway, Suite 105

• Reading – Miller-Keystone Blood Center, 2745A Leiscz’s Bridge Road (use address 1047 Old Bernville Road, Reading, PA 19605 for GPS)

• West Lawn – Wilson High School (Lower House), 2601 Grandview Blvd.

• Boyertown – Boyertown YMCA, 301 W. Spring St.

“We are excited to be partnering with the American Cancer Society for the Relay Blood Challenge,” said Castagna. “We urge all eligible donors to schedule an appointment to join us on Sept. 12 and to share their experiences with us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram using #BleedHope.”

The Sands Bethlehem Event Center will be sponsoring the event by offering a pair of tickets to Last Comic Standing, Yellowcard and New Found Glory, Meat Loaf (suite tickets), The Jacksons, Jack Hanna and Tony Orlando’s Great American Christmas Show. Each donation site is guaranteed to have one winner.

Miller-Keystone Blood Center and the American Cancer Society anticipate a large turnout for this event. For the safety and convenience of donors, everyone is encouraged to schedule appointments ahead of time to allow the blood center to plan accordingly.

For more information or to schedule a donation, call 800-B-A-DONOR (223-6667) or visit GIVEaPINT.org/Relay.