Labor Blood Drive beats January goal Repeat donors lead the way Last month's emergency Labor Blood Drive, held at Local 12 hall on Jan. 21, was a big success, Mark Buford, Red Cross Labor Liaison, said. "We exceeded our goal for donations." This blood helps to provide a precious gift to area residents. The need was critical because supplies were low at this time of year. He added that They have an R-2 Unit on site. This equipment split a pint of blood up into two usable pints. As usual, donations were led by repeat donors, mostly retirees, who have flexible schedules. More than a dozen people turned out at the beginning of the drive, helping it off to a good start. Local 12 President Bruce Baumhower noted that Local 12 posted notices for the drive in the Union Journal, sent flyers to Units, and sent e-mails to Local 12 members and retirees to help get the word out. "I was glad to see many retirees respond to the call," he said. "They helped to make the event successful." At the drive, Edd Grabowski, Jeep retiree, said, "I give blood as often as they call me. I'm on my 49th pint." Kim Barker, chairperson of the Toledo Municipal Court Unit, said, "I give blood during every drive that we have, and sometimes they call me in between." Mary Laser, Jeep Retiree, said, I give blood every time Jeep or local 12 has a drive." Jeep Retiree Kevin Matney said, "I give blood often." He note that he has donated about two gallons of blood so far. Ray Bricker, a retired postal service worker, said, "I've been donating blood for about 25 years." During that time, he has given 86 units of blood. Ken Ackerman and John Shoemaker, Jeep retirees, are also long time donors. Ken noted he has given five pints during the last few years, and John has given 24 pints over the years. How to Donate Blood The need for blood donations is ongoing. To schedule an appointment to donate please call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE (1-800-448-3543) or visit RedCrossBlood.org for more information. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental permission in some states), meet weight and height requirements (110 pounds or more, depending on their height) and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. Please bring your Red Cross blood donor card or other form of positive ID when you come to donate. About the Red Cross The Western Lake Erie Region serves 11 counties, and needs to collect about 300 units of blood a day to meet patient need in 24 hospitals. In addition to supplying nearly half of the nation's blood, the American Red Cross teaches lifesaving skills, provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization-not a government agency-and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. Click here for pictures |