Blood Assurance will hold a public blood drive next Wednesday from 1:30-8 p.m. at Waterville Baptist Church in honor of Sarah "Missy" Parris, a local wife and mother of seven who has been diagnosed with a bone marrow cancer.
"It is a challenge to find blood for transfusions for Missy because her type is only found in 0.9% of the population. Missy's family and friends have partnered with Blood Assurance in an effort to find the rare blood match Missy needs for her transfusions, while replenishing the universal blood supply for area patients in need," officials said.
As a thank you for donating in support of Ms. Parris, all blood donors will receive complimentary treats from Waterville Baptist Church, as well as a "Make Your Resolution Matter" t-shirt. Waterville Baptist Church is located at 4555 Dalton Pike SE in Cleveland.
Blood Assurance believes in the power of "honor drives" for a victim who required blood donations due to a trauma situation or ongoing illness. The host may choose to invite relatives, friends, coworkers and community members who would be willing to make a blood donation in support of the patient. The blood drive may be held at any Blood Assurance donor center or on the organization's bloodmobile at a location agreed upon by the host and location owner.
To be eligible to donate blood, you must be at least 18 years old (17 and 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.