TYRONE — The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive in the classroom at Tyrone Hospital on Feb. 5 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
All presenting donors are eligible to win a gift card that is redeemable at Red Lobster, Olive Garden, Longhorn Steakhouse, Bahama Breeze or Seasons 52 restaurants. All donors will also receive their Red Cross Rewards Club Points for donating.
The Red Cross needs to collect at least 1,000 units of blood each and every day in order to meet the needs of hospitals in our region.
Jolynn Baran, laboratory director, said emergency patients and surgical patients are just two examples of areas where hospitals need a ready supply of blood. Blood has to be replaced on a regular basis due to utilization by patients and also because blood can only be stored for a limited amount of time and then it must be replaced. There is no substitute for blood. The only way to replenish the blood supply is from donors.
According to the Red Cross, people who are diabetic and treated by insulin or oral medications can donate blood. But you should check with the Red Cross if you have recently changed your medication dosage. If you have taken bovine or Beef insulin, please speak to a Red Cross staff person.
People who have high blood pressure (hypertension) or are taking medications for high blood pressure can donate provided your blood pressure is at or below 180/100. Donors with a blood pressure 80/50 or lower may require further evaluation or may be deferred.
For more information about the upcoming blood drive at Tyrone Hospital or to schedule an appointment please call the American Red Cross at 1.800.GIVE.LIFE. Walk-ins are also welcome.