The word “blood” mentioned in October often conjures up images of vampires, ghouls, goblins and a variety of other images synonymous with Halloween. But for those patients who find themselves in need of life-saving blood during the autumn months, the word “blood” can mean the difference between life and death.
Because the need for blood is constant at all times during the year, the American Red Cross and Cable ONE, along with 97.9 WVOK, Quintard Mall, and AMC are teaming up for the 10th year to host the annual Fearfest Blood Drive, which will be held in Quintard Mall in Oxford on Thursday, October 25 and Friday, October 26, from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m.
Because blood can be separated into three components – blood, platelets and plasma – one donation can benefit up to three individuals. Since it takes up to three days for blood to be processed and made available to hospitals, it is important that a donation be made ahead of an emergency. If everyone who was eligible donated four times a year, there would never be a blood shortage.
Donors must be at least 17-years-old (16-years-old with parental consent), weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health. Donors must also show identification in the form of a driver’s license or ARC donor card. If you are sick and cannot donate, please encourage a friend or loved one to donate in your place.
If you plan on giving blood, make sure to prepare yourself for the process. Double your fluid intake in the 48 hours leading up to the blood drive. Make sure to eat a nutritious meal the night before, as well as the day of the blood drive. Eat iron-rich foods such as lean beef, broccoli, eggs, greens, shrimp, or dried beans. Also consume foods rich in Vitamin C, such as citrus fruits, cabbage, tomatoes, and sweet potatoes. Make sure to get a good night’s sleep before the blood drive.
All presenting volunteer donors at the Fearfest drive will receive a commemorative Fearfest t-shirt (while supplies last) and a coupon from Chick-Fil-A, as well as entrance into a drawing for a big screen TV and Quintard Mall gift cards. To make an appointment for the Fearfest blood drive, please visit www.redcrossblood.org and enter the sponsor code “fearfest”.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or join our blog at http://blog.redcross.org.
