By Alan & Cindy Cox
Adrian Coordinators
National Blood Donor Month has been observed in January since 1970 and recognizes the importance of giving blood and platelets while honoring those who roll up a sleeve to help patients in need. The winter months can be especially difficult to collect enough blood and platelets to meet patient needs. Inclement weather can result in blood drive cancellations, and seasonal illnesses, like the flu, can prevent some donors from making or keeping appointments to give.
Blood donors with all blood types, especially those with types AB, O, B negative and A negative and platelet donors are encouraged to make an appointment to give. 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.
Volunteers will soon be calling past donors to remind them of the upcoming bloodmobile and also to schedule appointments. Appointments can also be made by calling Alan or Cindy Cox at 483-2218 or evenings 360-0537. Walk-ins are also welcome during the bloodmobile. We will again have two double red cell machines available at the blood drive, height and weight requirements for this type of donation have changed so that more donors are eligible to donate two units of red cells. It is important for blood donors to start adding iron rich foods to their diet before donating blood so that they are not deferred due to a low hemoglobin level. For example, eating red meat, poultry, and iron-fortified cereals will increase your hemoglobin level.
Blood donors can now 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, prior to arriving at the blood drive. To get started and learn more, visit redcrossblood.org/RapidPass and follow the instructions on the site.
The Adrian American Red Cross blood drive will be held at the Adrian High School on Wednesday, January 24, 2018 from 2:00pm to 7:00pm, or you can come to the Wilmont Community Center on January 23, from 2:00 to 7:00pm. Anyone who is at least 17 years of age (16 with a signed parental consent form), weighs a minimum of 110 pounds, and is in good health is eligible to donate. First time donors are always welcome! Hope to see you on January 24th!
