Red Cross still looking for more blood donations
By Staff Reports
Published in News on July 15, 2009 1:46 PM
The American Red Cross is offering a special incentive for those who give blood this summer.
During its "Give Blood and See America" campaign, which runs through Sept. 30, each person who donates blood or platelets will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win one of three $1,000 gas gift cards.
There is a constant need for blood, said Kimberly M. Berrier, senior donor recruitment representative with the Red Cross in Wilmington. Each pint has the potential to save up to three lives.
The Carolinas Blood Services Region provides blood to 103 hospitals. To meet the demand, it must have 1,600 donors and platelets each day.
Accident victims, as well as patients with cancer, sickle cell disease, blood disorders and other illnesses receive lifesaving transfusions every day.
Ms. Berrier said there is no substitute for blood. Volunteer donors are the only source.
Donors can give blood every 56 days and platelets every two weeks. They must be 17 or older, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health.
For more information about giving blood or platelets, call the Red Cross at 735-7201.
Blood drives for July are
July 16: Excell Linde from 7:30 a.m to noon.
July 18: Dudley Christian Church from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
July 25: Berkeley Mall from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
July 28: 3HC from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
July 29: Housing Authority of Goldsboro from noon to 4 p.m.
July 30: Wayne Community College from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and Eureka United Methodist Church from 2:30 to 7 p.m.
July 31: Sam's Club from 1 to 5:30 p.m.