Donor Frank Hindman and Daniel Gruwell from Blood Assurance display Mr. Hindman’s 20th gallon certificate and commemorative T-shirt.
Frank Hindman II of Rome, Ga., has completed his 20th gallon blood donation at Blood Assurance, potentially saving almost 500 lives. Mr. Hindman is O positive and has been donating since 1983. The T-shirts Mr. Hindman receives for donating have been made into quilts that have been displayed at Blood Assurance donor centers. Officials said, "Thank you to Mr. Hindman for his commitment to saving lives and community service."
Blood Assurance is a non-profit regional blood center responsible for supplying blood and blood components to 74 healthcare facilities in 51 counties. Over 540 blood donors are needed every day in order to adequately supply all the hospitals served by Blood Assurance. One donation can save three lives.
To be eligible to donate blood, one must be at least 17 years old (16 years old with parental consent), weigh 110 pounds or more and be in good health. The process usually takes about 30 minutes and includes a complimentary snack. Donors are asked to drink plenty of fluids - avoiding caffeine - and eat a meal that is rich in iron prior to donating. In June, visitors can register for their chance to win a gas grill. Donors can pick their choice of a yellow cup or a T-shirt as a thank you for donating.
For more information about Blood Assurance, call 1-800-962-0628 or go to www.BloodAssurance.org.