|
The Virginia Tech Athletics Lane Stadium Blood Drive, in cooperation with the American Red Cross, will be held Friday, August 8, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The sixth floor of Lane Stadium's west side dining room will be the meeting point for tours of the stadium, great food and appearances by several coaches.
Tracy Bishop, Donor Recruitment Representative for the American Red Cross, is heading the event, along with VT personnel. "We hope to raise the awareness level of the needs of our region's 46 counties, and more than 30 hospitals in the Appalachian Blood Services Region,” Bishop said. “Our daily goal is to collect at least 300 units (one unit per donor) on the average of five days weekly, all year, and 200 units each weekend. Blood has a shelf-life of only 42 days, therefore, we must make our efforts very pro-active. VA Tech is the single largest supplier of blood in our region.”
“The need is constant. The gratification instant; we're about LIFE"---one of the Red Cross motto's. 1.2 million citizens in Virginia and West Virginia are served, with the collaboration of 15 Red Cross Chapters.
“Red Cross personnel will disseminate information about being a donor and how to hold a blood-drive at your company, school, or any similar venue. We will also direct individuals to centers and events at which they can donate," Bishop said.
According to a brochure that lists restrictions for donor eligibility, it is surprising that some folks that think they may not qualify, will. For instance, diabetics most often can donate, along with those that have had bypass surgery and other conditions. Age restrictions range from being at least 17 years old to no maximum age. However, international travel restrictions vary, according to the location and length of time spent there.
Besides coming to the August 8 event, you may also want information, via the Internet and phone. For Blacksburg's office, www.givelife.org is the main website, or you may call 1-800-GIVELIFE (800-448-3543). There is also a link on the VT Hokies website. In addition, the Blacksburg office can direct you to donor centers in several other locations.
"From leukemia patients, to trauma victims, it is essential that we keep our supply adequate,” Bishop said. “We want to help you and your group hold their own blood-drive, and we will do everything we can to help, including fully facilitating the event. Just contact us, anytime. Next Friday is going to be a great, fun-filled day, and I look forward to seeing lots of visitors. It's such a great way to visit Lane Stadium, meet some coaches, and get valuable information.”
|
Subscribe to this comment's feed
