With schools back in session, Blood Bank of Hawai‘i has scheduled a blood drives at Waimea High School Oct. 3 and the War Memorial Convention Hall Oct. 9 and 10, according to a news release. Young donors are increasingly important
With schools back in session, Blood Bank of Hawai‘i has scheduled a blood drives at Waimea High School Oct. 3 and the War Memorial Convention Hall Oct. 9 and 10, according to a news release.
Young donors are increasingly important to continuing the tradition of giving blood by the loyal World War II generation and baby boomers. During the 2011-12 school year, 94 high schools hosted blood drives, at which a total of 4,844 pints were collected.
“We are grateful to our high school students for their time and efforts in planning and executing efficient and effective blood drives,” says Blood Bank of Hawai‘i Vice President Wendy Abe in a release. “The contributions from young lifesavers over the past school year helped save the lives of 14,532 patients statewide.”
In addition to students, Kaua‘i residents have the opportunity to give blood at the following drives in October (drives are subject to change). To make an appointment call 848-4770.
• Monday, Oct. 8: Waimea High School, Band Rooms A & B, 10 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.
• Tuesday, Oct. 9: Kaua‘i War Memorial, Convention Hall, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Wednesday, Oct. 10: Kaua‘i War Memorial, Convention Hall, 7 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.
Every day in Hawai‘i, hundreds of patients count on volunteer blood donors for their survival.
Typical uses for the donated blood include surgical procedures; treatment of accident victims and chemotherapy patients; and mothers and newborns during delivery.
Because each donation is separated into three different components — red blood cells, platelets and plasma — a single donation can help save the lives of up to three people.
The donation process is safe and usually takes about an hour. A confidential interview and a brief vital signs check are administered, but the actual collection of blood takes only five to eight minutes.
In Hawai‘i, only two percent of the eligible population donates blood. More donors are always needed. The requirements to be a blood donor are simple:
• Be in good health
• Be 18 years of age or older (17 with signed Blood Bank parent/legal guardian consent form)
• Weigh 110 pounds or more
• Bring a valid photo ID with date of birth
To make an appointment or get more information, visit www.BBH.org or call Blood Bank of Hawai‘i toll-free at (800) 372-9966.
