Red Cross to have blood drive

Thursday, April 3, 2008

Red Cross is urging everyone to plant a seed of compassion this spring by encouaging family and friends to become life-saving blood donors. Recent statistics indicate very few Americans are eligible to donate blood. Until recently, 65 percent of the United States population was thought to be eligible to donate; however, recent studies have shown the figure to be closer to 38 percent.

Residents are encouraged to make an appointment to donate blood and bring a friend to the Bourbon County Red Cross blood drive, scheduled for Monday, April 21st, from 12:45 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. and Tuesday, April 22nd from 9:00 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. at Fort Scott Christian Heights School, 1101 South Barbee, Fort Scott.

"Maintaining a stable blood supply for our community means asking regular blood donors to donate and also to recruit new donors as well," said Whendi Martin drive coordinator. "We can't keep counting on the same donors to always be available and able to donate".

"We have a small minority of our fellow citizens that are making sure blood is available for area patients," said Pam Head, CEO, American Red Cross Central Plains Blood Services. "But with someone needing blood every 2 seconds, this is a community responsibility that we all need to share."

Please call 1-800-GIVE LIFE to schedule your appointment. Walk-in donors are welcome; however, those with appointments will be given priority. O negative donors are especially needed as soon as possible. Supplies of O negative are down throughout Red Cross Blood Services Regions around the United States.

Those who are unable to give blood are urged to recruit another to donate in their place. Donors must be in general good health, weigh 110 pounds or more, and be at least 17 years old (16 in kansas with completed Parental Consent Form. Visit www.bloodgiveslife.org to print the required consent form and reading materials.) Please bring your donor card or photo ID.