United Blood Services seeks donors to grow blood supply for the holidays

United Blood Services is seeking blood donors to help ensure an adequate blood supply is available this holiday season.
United Blood Services experiences a decrease in the amount of donors frequenting its donor centers during Thanksgiving week, Jason Conner, donor recruitment manager, said in a news release. A decrease in donor turnout means less blood products available for patients in need of a lifesaving blood transfusion.
“We are asking for your help today,” Conner said. “We recognize that, for many, Thanksgiving is a time for family gatherings, Christmas shopping, football and hunting. So we are asking donors to add a stop in at United Blood Services as part of their Thanksgiving planning checklist this year,” he said.
As a special thank you for helping to ensure an adequate blood supply is available throughout the Thanksgiving holiday week, donors will receive a special “hunter” orange, hunting-themed T-shirt to celebrate the hunting season. The T-shirts will only be available while supplies last.
The United Blood Services donor center is located at 1234 David Drive, Suite 102, and is open Monday through Wednesday.
To schedule an appointment to donate, go to www.bloodhero.com or call 1-877-827-4376. Donors can also go to www.unitedbloodservices.org the day of their donation and click on the “Health History Questionnaire.” Make sure to print your “Fast track donation ticket” and bring it with you on the bus to save time, as well as lives. This allows donors to complete the interview portion of their donation on-line. Donors can also fill out their “Health History Questionnaire” from their phone or tablet while they wait (not compatible with all devices).
Volunteer blood donors must be at least 16 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health. Additional height/weight requirements apply to donors 22 and younger, and donors who are 16 years of age must have signed permission from a parent or guardian. Donors receive a free cholesterol test. A photo identification is required to donate. For more information, call 337-739-4978.