ABI message about blood drive Tuesday at the Coronado Center

Blood donors can feel good knowing they are saving up to three lives with their donation at the Hot Springs Village Coronado Center blood drive. Arkansas Blood Institute (ABI) will host a blood drive 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Tuesday, April 19 at 150 Ponderosa Lane. Anyone who is 16 years and older can usually donate* and whole blood donations can be made every 56 days.

Donors at this drive can also support The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society by forgoing the acrylic tumbler offered in appreciation for giving blood. In turn, Arkansas Blood Institute will make a monetary donation of similar value to support The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. It’s a chance to ‘doubly give’ for Arkansans with these blood disorders… through the gift of life-saving blood… and support of research and treatment initiatives.

All blood donors will also receive free health screenings and Donor Rewards Points.

“16 hospitals in our area rely on us to provide every drop of blood for their patients,” said John Armitage, ABI president and CEO. “And thanks to groups like Hot Springs Village Coronado Center, we are able to meet those daily needs.”

Although all blood types are needed to maintain ABI’s typical three-day supply, 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 an emergency situation, regardless of their type.

Arkansas Blood Institute provides every drop of blood needed by patients in 16 hospitals in western Arkansas and eastern Oklahoma thanks to its volunteer donors. Since 1958, those needing blood in the area have counted on mobile blood drives and donor centers in Fort Smith and Hot Springs to ensure there is an adequate blood supply. In October, it became an affiliate of Oklahoma Blood Institute after previously partnering with United Blood Services. Oklahoma Blood Institute is the ninth largest, independent nonprofit blood center in the nation. Arkansas Blood Institute was formed at this time to reflect the local commitment to providing for people in the region.

For more information or to make an appointment, contact Arkansas Blood Institute at 877-340-8777 or visit us at www.arkbi.org.