Did you know you can start donating blood when you are 16? From beginning to end the process takes about an hour. All you need is a picture ID and a consent form signed by your parent if you are under 18. One of the first steps is to read an information pamphlet about donating blood to make sure you are not taking any medication that prohibits you from donating. You will be asked questions about your health history and travel history. They check your temperature, pulse, blood pressure and your hemoglobin level to make sure your iron is high enough to donate. You donate about a pint of whole blood, the donation itself only takes about 8-10 minutes. After your donation we like you to sit and have some soup, sandwich and cookies.
Your blood donation can be stored for 42 days. If your blood is used you now receive an email that tells you where your blood is going to be used. Just like that you helped save someone's life!
Our Big Sandy Community Blood drive February 26, 2020 was a success considering how many are down with the cold and flu this season. We collected 23 units. Our Milestones this drive are: Cheryl Darlington and Carla Gilman hit their one gallon mark. Bob Nelson has donated 7 gallons. Wyatt LaBuda was our First time donor.
Thank you to the Calthoic PCW for donating their time and food for the drive. Thank you to all who came to donate. Our next Big Sandy Community Blood Drive is May 5, 2020 at the Jerry Martin Memorial Hall from 12:45-7:00. You can go to redcrossblood.org to schedule your appointment or contact Rachel Baumgarn at 406-378-2329
