Lexington, SC 05/04/2022 - Heroes come in all shapes and sizes. They don’t wear capes or special suits, and their badge of honor is the bandage that shows they gave the gift of life.
The community is invited to become a hometown hero and answer the call of patients in need by donating blood on Friday, May 6 from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the State VFW Headquarters on Glassmaster Road.
Post Adjutant State Surgeon Gene Bryant explains the VFW is a nonprofit organization for veterans of the armed forces that have served in a combat area. The Headquarters facility has several events planned for the community.
“We are seeking donors for [the blood drive],” Bryant said. “In addition to the blood drive, we are hosting a free legal clinic, VA bus, a representative from HUMANA, [and] a Spring Bazaar. [We ask] for the public’s assistance with this event.”
Donating blood is one of the simplest things a person can do to help save a patient’s life. For the hour it takes to give blood, there could be a whole community of people thankful for another birthday given to their loved one.
“Blood donation is essential to the health of our communities,” said Shonette Sneed, Regional Donor Services Executive, South Carolina Blood Services Region. “We are grateful to our partners for stepping up to provide an opportunity for those who are healthy and feeling well to donate blood and help stock hospital shelves.”
How to donate blood
Simply 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.
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