The Asheville-Mountain Area Chapter of the American Red Cross does more than draw blood. From assisting military families to emergency response to CPR and First Aid classes, the Red Cross offers a lifeline to those in need. But blood is the goal of the 20th Annual Operation Blood Drive, the largest local blood drive of the year, sponsored by WLOS-TV 13 and scheduled to run from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday, June 28, at First Baptist Church, 5 Oak St.
“As the summer begins, we are especially concerned with the supply of blood available to those who need it,” says Executive Director of the Asheville-Mountain Area Chapter Patrick Fitzsimmons, adding that the Red Cross provides approximately 1,600 units of blood and blood products to area hospitals each day.
Donors will receive a T-shirt, a commemorative pin and a chance to win a $750 gas card. To donate, you need to be at least 17 years old, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be in good general health. Bring a photo ID and your blood donor card, if you have one. To schedule an appointment: call 258-3888, ext. 104 or visit www.membersforlife.org/cbsr/schedule and enter sponsor code # 3434. Walk-ins are always welcome, but donors with appointments will be processed first. Info: www.redcrosswnc.org
