The Kentucky Blood Center is hosting a spring blood drive on March 7 at the Morehead Walmart. Officials said donations of blood products taken at the KBC blood mobile are sent to over 70 hospitals in the state and contribute to saving the lives of trauma and cancer patients and much more.
Donations at the drive only take around 45 minutes from beginning to end. The actual blood collection process takes 8-12 minutes. Anyone who donates will receive a spring-themed “Give Y’all” t-shirt while supplies last.
Eric Lindsey is the Director of Media and Branding at the KBC. He said while blood donations are looking good right now, the need for blood can change in an instant.
“Blood is an everyday need, you know, and if it’s something that we put on the back burner or you know, take for granted, that you’re hearing this and it’s good and think “well they don’t need my donation”, those numbers can really slip,” said Lindsey.
Anyone interested in donating blood must be at least 17 years old, or 16 with parental permission, weigh at least 110 pounds, be in general good health, show a photo I-D, and meet other additional requirements.
Lindsey added there are many misconceptions about who is and isn’t allowed to donate.
“We often hear from people that have tattoos that say, ‘Well I’ve got a tattoo so I can’t donate’. That’s not true at all. As long as you know, you’ve had your tattoo done at a licensed facility, you’re totally okay to donate,” said Lindsey.
The blood drive is from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Appointments are recommended but walk-ins are welcome. Anyone interested can schedule a donation by clicking here or by calling 800-775-2522.