Did you know that Illinois is home to the first blood bank in the world?

Dr. Bernard Fantus was known for his work to improve and modernize medicine. As patients who needed a blood transfusion had to scramble to find a donor for a person-to-person transfusion, he knew there had to be a better way.

After learning about studies suggesting that blood could be stored for a period of time, Dr. Fantus spent seven years developing the scientific and administrative groundwork for a blood bank. Through his endeavors, the first blood bank was opened at the Cook County Hospital in Chicago in March 1937.

The opening of the first blood bank was revolutionary to modern medicine, as it allowed for patients in critical condition to receive lifesaving care without the worry of finding a donor or the risk of a traumatic person-to-person transfusion.

Dr. Fantus was recognized in 1961 by the Cook County Hospital for his contributions to medicine through the dedication of an outpatient clinic that still operates in his name.

To find a blood donation center near you, click here.