What better way to celebrate World Blood Donor Day on June 14 than to make an appointment for an upcoming blood drive in the area? All eligible donors are encouraged to take part by making an appointment to give blood or platelets during the month of June.
The American Red Cross joins other blood collection organizations around the world to recognize the importance of a safe and stable blood supply and the donors who make it possible.
Nearly 2.5 million people volunteer to give lifesaving blood and platelets every year with the Red Cross, according to a statement from Eastern North Carolina’s Regional Communications Director Cally Edwards, which includes Vance, Granville and Warren counties.
Blood donations decline in late spring and early summer – especially during holiday weeks, like Memorial Day and Independence Day – but the need for blood and platelet transfusions doesn’t take a summer break.
To schedule an appointment to donate, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1.800.733.2767).
Blood drives in Henderson and Oxford are scheduled for Friday, June 24, Edwards stated.
Here are the details:
- Henderson: 6/24, 10 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. at Maria Parham Medical Center, 566 Ruin Creek Rd.
- Oxford: 6/24, 9 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., Oxford United Methodist Church, 105 W. McClanahan St.
As a special thank you, everyone who donates blood during June will also have their name entered for a chance to win a VIP trip for two to Graceland.
The trip includes round-trip airfare to Memphis, plus a three-night stay at The Guest House and Elvis Entourage VIP tour, courtesy of Graceland, a custom-wrapped Gibson Epiphone guitar and more.
Additionally, those who come to donate in June will also receive a $5 e-gift card to a merchant of choice.
Download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1.800.733.2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information.
All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.