BELMONT, NY— Donate blood on Tuesday, March 6 from 1 to 5 p.m. in the auditorium of Genesee Valley Central School located at 5380 County Rd 48.
“Every drop counts,” says Lora Cope, CBB mobile drive coordinator. “Donations made to the Community Blood Bank impact the blood supply at area hospitals.”
The rarest type of blood is the type of blood that is not found on the shelf when needed by area patients. Across the nation, blood is needed every two seconds.
“There is an incredible need for blood donors,” says Stephanie Phillips-Taggart, community relations coordinator at the CBB. “If only one percent of all Americans would give blood, blood shortages would disappear for the foreseeable future.”
There are four easy steps to donate: medical history, mini health screening, donation and snacks. The actual blood donation process takes about 10 minutes. The entire process—from the time you sign in, until the time you leave—usually takes an hour.
“If you are able, please take the time to save a life,” says Cope.
Individuals are eligible to give blood if it has been 56 days since their last donation; they are at least 17 years of age (16 with parental consent); weigh at least 110 pounds; have not received a tattoo or body piercing in the past 12 months; are in good general health and do not have a cold or the flu Donors must have a valid photo ID in order to register. Prior to donating, those giving blood should eat a good solid meal and drink at least 18 oz. of water. Appointments are not necessary, but can be made if preferred.
For more information, to schedule an appointment or to learn more about hosting a drive, call 570-789-4026 or visit FourHearts.org.
