Donate blood in February during National Heart Month

February is National Heart Month.  Save a life this February by making a life-saving donation of blood at the next Waukon Community Blood Drive Monday, February 3 from Noon to 5 p.m. at the First Baptist Church in south Waukon.

Donating blood is safe, simple and it saves lives.  Every two seconds, someone needs blood and one pint can save up to three people.

Blood donors have a unique opportunity to contribute to their community by making a life-saving blood donation.  Everyone who registers to donate blood goes through four simple steps during the donation process:  registration, donor history and mini-physical, blood donation and snacks.

New blood donors who are not familiar with the blood donation process are encouraged to ask questions before, during and after their blood donation. Below are a few tips for ensuring a successful donation:

· Get a good night’s sleep before donating blood.
· Eat a good meal before donating blood. Do not donate on an empty stomach.
· Drink plenty of fluids.
· Bring a photo ID or Blood Donor ID Card to the appointment.
· Those who are 16 or 17 years old and have never donated blood with LifeServe Blood Center should be sure to get a signed Parental/Guardian Permission Form.

LifeServe Blood Center is one of the 15 largest blood centers in the country, and provides blood and blood products to more than 90 hospitals located across Iowa, Nebraska and South Dakota.  This includes Veterans Memorial Hospital in Waukon.

For more information or to schedule an appointment to donate blood at the next Waukon blood drive February 3, call 1-800-287-4903.