Clearly, the 225 annual pledged units of blood won't keep up with our own community's demands. Blood use is heaviest for patients of chemotherapy, heart by-pass surgery and trauma accidents. The body only contains 10 pints of blood, but more than 50 units could be used to treat the victim of a farm accident. Donating blood can be done fairly painlessly and effortlessly, although it is easier if donors eat well and drink plenty of fluids prior to rolling up their sleeves. Donors, who can give blood up to five times per year, receive a free cholesterol check while performing the life-saving deed, plus a healthy bonus.
Research shows that donating blood helps rid the body of extra iron.
Donors must be 17 years old and weigh at least 110 pounds. Those persons with recent tattoos or body piercings will have to wait up to 12 months to make a contribution. The public has become increasingly skeptical that their donations, financial or otherwise, are being used locally. Donors can rest assured that their donations will be used by patients in this area. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are encouraged.