Locally based Whataburger has teamed up with the South Texas Blood & Tissue Center (STBTC) for “WhataMonth,” a July-long “thank you” to blood donors.

All STBTC donors will receive a coupon for a free Whataburger for helping patients in area hospitals during the summer, traditionally the slowest time of year for blood collections.

WhataMonth was created to help prevent critical blood shortages in South Texas similar to those being reported across the United States. Although the need for blood continues, blood centers report dramatic drops in collections during June, July and August, when there are no school drives and regular donors are on vacation. The American Red Cross last week reported national shortages totalling tens of thousands of units so far this summer. 

On May 20, families gathered outside the Donor Pavilion to remember those who they have loved and lost.

Ceremonies to launch the BioBridge Global Memorial Garden included both staff and families who prepared memorial stones for the departed, as well as a ceremonial watering and the unveiling of a memorial bench.

Coordinated by Susan Smith, the BBG Memorial Garden is a memorial to those who have died and a place for the grieving to find comfort. It is adjacent to the Donor Pavilion, open to the public, and the anyone is welcome to add memorials to their loved ones.

The dedication began with individuals sharing their late loved ones’ stories, prompting hugs between strangers and establishing a connection among the group.

The families then wrote messages to their loved ones on rocks to be placed in the garden. While some featured Bible verses and others were adorned with drawings, they all showcased extensive love for those they commemorated.