Charles Page High School to host Oklahoma Blood Donor Challenge
/Jan. 27, 2017 ─ As flu season and winter weather impact the blood supply, Oklahoma Blood Institute urges Oklahomans to join the “Blood Donor Challenge” to make sure area patients have the blood they need.
Join Charles Page High School for a blood drive with Oklahoma Blood Institute on Monday, February 6 from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., in the school’s small gym. Donors will receive a free Blood Donor Challenge t-shirt and health screenings at no cost. Donors can post to social media about their donation using the hashtag #blooddonorchallenge.
“As more people are hospitalized due to flu and other viruses, the need for blood increases,” said John Armitage, M.D., Oklahoma Blood Institute president and CEO. “At the same time, some regular blood donors are coming down with illnesses and temporarily can’t give. In addition to hazardous weather conditions, winter presents significant challenges to the life-saving blood supply.”
Whole blood donations can be made every 56 days. Platelets can be donated up to 24 times a year.
Oklahoma Blood Institute relies on donations from an average of 1,200 donors each day to meet the needs of patients statewide. One blood donation can save as many as three lives, and takes only about an hour. Those with negative blood types are especially urged to donate.
In 2017, Oklahoma Blood Institute is celebrating its 40th year of saving local lives. Oklahoma Blood Institute is a non-profit, independent blood center now serving 165 hospitals, medical facilities and air ambulances statewide.
Appointments can be made by visiting obi.org or calling (877) 340-8777.
*16 year olds must weigh at least 125 pounds and provide signed parental permission; 17 year olds must weigh at least 125 pounds; 18+ year olds must weigh at least 110 pounds
