Lake Hamilton blood drive next week

Lake Hamilton Elementary invites all warm-hearted Pearcy-area residents to give blood 2:15 p.m. to 7:15 p.m., Thursday, December 8 at 104 Wolf Street. Arkansas Blood Institute (ABI) will reward each donor’s giving spirit with an ice scraper. Anyone who is healthy and 16 years or older can donate.*

“Residents of Arkansas are warm-hearted, giving people who respond when they know of needs in their communities,” said John Armitage, M.D., Arkansas Blood Institute president and CEO. “During the winter months, we especially ask people to take an hour to provide life-saving blood for someone who will need it just to make it through the day. Who knows? It could be a co-worker, neighbor, or even a member of our own family we are helping.”

Since there’s no substitute for blood, the supply must constantly be renewed. Although all blood types are needed, those with O Negative type blood are especially encouraged to donate. According to the American Association of Blood Banks, those with O Negative blood type make up only nine percent of the national population. However, O Negative blood can be used by anyone in emergency need when a patient’s blood type has not yet been identified.

For more information or to make an appointment to donate, contact Arkansas Blood Institute at (877) 340-8777. Donors always receive free health screenings and Donor Rewards points, redeemable for merchandise from ABI’s online store.

* 16 year olds must weigh at least 125 pounds and provide signed parental permission; 17 year olds must weigh at least 125 pounds; 18+ year olds must weigh at least 110 pounds.