Six tips for new and loyal donors to help make their donation process easy as pie.
This Fourth of July, donors are encouraged to roll up a sleeve to help patients in need during the American Red Cross’ annual Celebrate Freedom blood drive. Those who come to give blood will receive a Red Cross drawstring bag and an apple pie, while supplies last.
Celebrate Freedom Blood Drive, Tuesday, July 4
1:30 to 6:30pm at Red Cross Bend Blood Donation Center
815 SW Bond St., Suite 110
Giving blood at the Celebrate Freedom blood drive will help ensure a sufficient supply of blood is available this summer, a critical time when the Red Cross sees a decline in blood donations. New blood donors are especially needed during the summer months because many schools where blood drives are held – and where new donors give – are not in session. Whether new to donating blood or a lifelong donor, the Red Cross offers helpful tips for an enjoyable donation experience:
-As much as possible, eat iron-rich foods leading up to your donation.
-Hydrate – drink an extra 16 oz. of liquid before and after the donation.
-Have a healthy meal before the donation.
-Wear comfortable clothing with sleeves that can be raised above the elbow.
-Complete a RapidPass on the day of donation, prior to arriving, to save time.
-Remember to bring a picture ID, blood donor card or two other forms of identification.
How to donate blood
Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) 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 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.
American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.
