Nancy McClure Pinto of Clearfield, director of the Clearfield Area United Way, was recently presented with a 15 Gallon Blood Donation pin from Jason Bange of the PA Heartland Chapter, American Red Cross.
Bange’s presentation followed the Clearfield Woman’s Club Bloodmobile held at the Florian Banquet Center. Danielle Dixon and Irene Kelly of Clearfield were given 2 Gallon and 4 Gallon Pins, respectively.
“We congratulate Mrs. Pinto on this milestone; every two seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood and blood cannot be manufactured, it can only come from generous donors,” explained Bange.
“But, the blood used in an emergency has to already be on the shelves before the event occurs and that is why it is so very important that we get the word out every day to people, over age 17 and who weigh at least 110 pounds, to please start giving now.”
“It will bring you a lifetime of knowing that you are making a difference to others of all ages,” said Pinto, adding, “Although an estimated 38 percent of the U.S. population is eligible to donate, less than 10 percent actually do.”
A healthy donor may donate red blood cells every 56 days, or double reds every 112 days.
Pinto noted that, “Blood donation is a four-step process: registration, a very brief medical history, donation and refreshments. The entire process takes about one hour and 15 minutes and information is confidential, [and] not released without your permission.”
Both directors are asking everyone to call 1-800-RED-CROSS to learn more about blood donation.