Blood Assurance is hosting a blood drive beginning Monday through Saturday, May 28 in honor of local veterans who gave their lives for our country. All blood donors will have the option of receiving a complimentary Fandango movie ticket or an “American Blood Donor” t-shirt as a thank you for their donation. Blood Assurance encourages the community to make a blood donation in honor of a friend or family member who has served in the United States military.
“This Memorial Day, we remember why the gift of life is so important as we honor those who risked their lives to serve our country,” said Mindy Quinn, marketing manager for Blood Assurance. “There is nothing more valuable than life, and we hope the community will help us save local patients’ lives by selflessly making a blood donation in honor of our veterans.”
Blood Assurance is in critical need of types O negative, O positive, B negative and A negative as well as A positive and B positive plasma donors. According to America’s Blood Centers, every two seconds someone in the United States needs blood. To meet this widespread demand, area donors may donate every 56 days for a total of up to six times per year. Over 540 volunteer blood donors are needed every day in order to adequately supply the demand of local hospitals, and just one donation can save up to three lives across the region.
To be eligible to donate blood, you must be at least 17 years old (16 years old with parental consent), weigh 110 pounds or more and be in good health. Donors are asked to drink plenty of fluids, avoiding caffeine, and eat a meal that is rich in iron prior to donating.
For more information on Blood Assurance, donating blood or hosting a blood drive, visit www.bloodassurance.org or call 1-800-962-0628.