McLeod Loris Hosts Community Blood Drive

McLEOD LORIS 2 MAY 2014

 (4/29/2014)  McLeod Loris will be hosting a community blood drive at the Center for Health & Fitness, 3207 Casey Street, Loris, on Thursday, May 8, from 12:30 – 6:30 p.m.

There is a continuous need for blood across the county. Each year, the American Red Cross works with more than 50,000 blood drive sponsors to hold approximately 200,000 blood drives nationwide. Donations make it possible for the Red Cross to provide blood for patients in nearly 3,000 hospitals across the United States.

People can donate a pint of blood every 56 days. Blood donation requirements include a minimum weight of 115 pounds and minimum age of 17. A 16-year old may donate blood with written parental consent. There is no upper age limit for donating blood.

Many health conditions and medications do NOT prevent someone from donating blood. People taking insulin, blood pressure, thyroid, and cholesterol medications, aspirin, antidepressants, and hormone replacement can give blood. Tattoos are also okay as long as they are healed and have been done in a reputable tattoo facility. Donors are encouraged to eat a meal prior to giving blood and drink plenty of water. A photo ID is required at donation time.

Appointments are not necessary and walk-ins are welcome. For more information about how you can give the gift of life by donating blood, please call (843) 390-8326 or visit www.redcross.org.