Our Lady of the Seas Catholic Church is teaming up with the American Red Cross for a late spring blood drive on Wednesday, May 12th at the Parish, located at 48478 NC-12 in Buxton. With summer fast approaching, blood and blood components will be in dire need!
Did you know that donating blood one time has the potential to save as many as three lives? Did you also know that every two seconds someone in the United States needs blood? Donated blood is essential to keep many people alive, but unfortunately The American Red Cross has received fewer donations than needed to meet the expected demand for the summer months. Dare County has reached a critical need for blood and platelet donors with an emphasis on types O, AB, B negative and A negative.
Although 38 percent of the American population is able to donate blood, only 10 percent of the population actually donates. Many people are afraid of donating blood or simply do not want to. However, most people who donate say that they feel satisfied after donating. In fact, it’s a very simple process: registration; medical history; mini-physical; donation and; refreshments.
All blood donations will be tested for COVID-19 antibodies.
It takes about an hour and 15 minutes from start to finish and drawing blood only takes roughly 10 to 12 minutes. A healthy donor may donate red blood cells every 56 days and platelets as few as 7 days apart, but a maximum of 24 times a year, according to the American Red Cross. All of the blood is tested before distribution to area hospitals.
The American Red Cross has health requirements for donating blood. Donors must be in good health and infection-free, at least 16 years old in most states and weigh at least 110 pounds. There are additional requirements that may restrict interested donors from donating blood. For more information, please visit the American Red Cross website.
To register, please visit RedCross.org and enter zip code: 27920.
The Red Cross is also thanking those who come to give May 1-15 with a $5 Amazon.com Gift Card via email, courtesy of Suburban Propane. Restrictions apply. See additional information and details at RedCrossBlood.org/SummerFullofLife.
