Blood in special demand over the holidays; Give the gift of blood

The LifeServe Blood Center is asking people to join them in the spirit of giving. While entering the holiday season, starting with Thanksgiving, they are asking everyone to give thanks and give blood, giving patients a chance to spend more holidays with their loved ones.

The next LifeServe Blood Center Blood Drive will be held Monday, December 1, from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., at the First Baptist Church in south Waukon. Blood drives are held every month in Waukon to allow for more donors to give. The LifeServe Blood Center supplies Veterans Memorial Hospital with their blood and blood products.

The Blood Center is seeking donors to ensure a safe and plentiful blood supply in Iowa. Because there is no substitute for human blood, the need for donors is continuous, and especially over the holidays. Hospitals don’t take holidays and patients still need surgeries, cancer treatments and emergencies do happen. Donations of blood ensures someone else can be thankful for another day.

Over half of the United States population is eligible to donate blood, yet less than four percent donate on a regular basis. 

The LifeServe Blood Center is committed to serving the needs of Iowans by saving lives through volunteer blood donation. The blood that is collected is tested carefully. In fact, all blood that is collected by any blood collection center is all tested the same, according to the federal regulations.

To help maintain Iowa’s blood supply over the holiday season, donate at the Waukon Community Blood Drive, Monday, December 1, at the First Baptist Church in south Waukon. Eligible donors must be at least 17 years of age, be in general good health and weigh at least 120 pounds.  Appointments are encouraged and walk-ins can only be accepted as the schedule permits. To schedule your appointment, call the LifeServe Blood Center at 800-287-4903.