Kiwanis to host community blood drive

Details
Published on Tuesday, 14 February 2012 12:31

Elk City-area residents can ‘share the love’ this February by donating blood with Oklahoma Blood Institute (OBI).  All donors at the Elk City Kiwanis community blood drive held in the First Baptist Church Activities building at 1600 W. Country Club, Tuesday, February 28, from Noon to 6 p.m. will receive an OBI ice scraper, free health screenings and Donor Rewards Points.

Additionally, if blood donors choose to forgo the donor appreciation item, funds designated for this item will be directed to our partnering organization, the American Heart Association. Oklahoma Blood Institute and the American Heart Association (AHA) share a common goal, to keep people healthy.  The American Heart Association wants everyone to know their numbers and act on them. That’s the first step in changing cardiovascular health statistics. Because blood donors receive a mini health check, including blood pressure and cholesterol results, every time they come to donate, those numbers are readily available to each donor.

“As the winter months come to a close, it’s important for donors to continue giving,” said John Armitage, Oklahoma Blood Institute president and CEO. “Oklahoma weather remains unpredictable, but the need for blood remains steady.”

Sponsored by Hot Spot Truck and Car WashAlthough all blood types are needed to maintain OBI’s typical 3-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. 

Blood donations can be made every 56 days. Oklahoma Blood Institute is the ninth largest, non-profit blood center in America, providing every drop of blood needed by patients in more than 135 medical facilities across Oklahoma.

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

comments