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Give Blood: Save a Life

  • Published
  • By 1st Lt. Vicki Marcus
  • 92nd Air Refueling Wing assistant staff judge advocate
FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. --  During the 101 Critical Days of Summer we focus on safety and fun. We should also focus on the need to help others. A red alert has gone out in Washington this summer for immediate blood donors. There is a critical shortage of all types, with the most need for the universal donors, O+ and O-, to step forward and give. In as little as an hour you can make a world of difference to as many as three lives, as each pint of blood is divided into platelets, plasma, and red blood cells.

You will have the chance to help your neighbors July 18 when the Inland Northwest Blood Center holds a blood drive at Fairchild. The drive will be at the BX from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., and all donors will receive a T-shirt as a special thank you for making a difference in the community. You can schedule an appointment by calling 247-2838 or e-mailing Vicki.Marcus@fairchild.af.mil.

There are some important things to keep in mind when preparing to donate blood. You must weigh at least 110 pounds and be in general good health. You cannot donate blood within twelve months of any body piercing or tattoos and you may not donate blood if you have donated blood within the last eight weeks (56 days). If you are going to donate, drink plenty of fluids and eat iron-rich foods beforehand. If you have questions regarding restrictions or limits placed on blood donation, contact INBC at 624-0151.

As Air Force members, we make a habit out of giving back to the greater community. This blood drive provides us with another opportunity to do so. We hope to see you there.