Blood drive planned for Brookings Health

BROOKINGS — In recognition of National Blood Donor Month, Community Blood Bank will host a blood drive at Brookings Health System on Tuesday, Jan. 6, from 7:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. All those donating blood will receive a $15 Scooter's gift card as a thank you gift.

To schedule a donation, donors may call Brookings Health System at 605-696- 8048.

January is a critical time for blood donations, as winter weather and seasonal illnesses often lead to decreased donations while the need for blood remains constant. Patients undergoing surgery, cancer treatment, trauma care, and those with chronic illnesses depend on a steady supply of blood to save their lives.

"Every two seconds, someone in the United States needs blood,"said Ken Versteeg, Executive Director, Community Blood Bank. "National Blood Donor Month is an important reminder that blood donations are essential year-round, and we encourage our community to start the new year by giving the gift of life. Just in our service area community patients will use between 450 to 550 donations per week."

"The demand for blood in the area continues to grow as we experience the Baby Boomers aging and requiring additional medical services."

The donation process takes approximately 30 minutes, and a single donation can save up to three lives. Donors must be at least 17 years old (or 16 with parental consent found at www.cbblifeblood.org), weigh at least 110 pounds, and be in general good health. Donors exhibiting cold or flu symptoms are unable to donate.

A valid identification is required at the time of registration. It is recommended that a person eat and drink plenty of fluid prior to donating blood.

Community Blood Bank is the only blood provider to Brookings Health System and asks residents to support their local patients when we come to Brookings.

— From staff reports