Blood Drive Scheduled at MPMC

7/27/2011

Blood Drive Scheduled at Maria Parham

ARC Issues Urgent Appeal

There will be an American Red Cross Blood Drive at Maria Parham Medical Center on Friday, August 12 from 10:00 AM until 2:30 PM in the Classroom of the hospital.  Appointments are being accepted, but walk-ins are certainly welcome.  Donors need to be at least 17 years old (sixteen year olds are now able to donate, as long as they have parental permission), in good general health the day of the drive, and weigh at least 110 pounds.

Earlier this month, the American Red Cross issued an urgent appeal.  Many donors are busy or traveling, school is out of session and donations in May and June dropped to the lowest levels the Red Cross has seen during this timeframe in over a dozen years. Demand for blood remained steady during this same period, which is why the Red Cross needs people—now more than ever—to roll up a sleeve and give as soon as possible. All types are needed, but especially O negative, which can be used to treat any patient.

All presenting donors will receive a coupon for a free box of 6 pieces of chocolate dipped fruit from Edible Arrangements.  The closest Edible Arrangements stores are located in Wake Forest, Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill.

There will be a double red cell machine at this drive, for those who are interested in double red cell donation.  It takes a little longer than whole blood donation, and the height, weight and hematocrit level requirements of the donors are a little different. 

Call Lee Anne Peoples at Maria Parham at 436-1116, or email her at peoplesl@mphosp.org to schedule your appointment time, for more information on how 16 year olds can donate, or for more information about becoming a double red cell donor. 

Please consider giving blood—the Gift of Life!