Giving Blood Is More Than Just A Game
9/5/2007 12:00:00 AM | Communications
Sept. 5, 2007
The Baylor Athletic Department and the Waco Chamber of Commerce know giving blood is more than just a game; giving blood saves lives. That is why the two groups are partnering with Carter BloodCare, the community blood center, to motivate donors to visit the Carter BloodCare Neighborhood Donor Center during the month of September, especially the days after Labor Day weekend - a time when the blood supply falls below preferred levels due to the long holiday weekend and higher usage. Everyone who comes to the Carter BloodCare Waco Donor Center to give blood from September 4th until September 15th will receive a Baylor Bears T-shirt and an opportunity to win a 4-pack of Season Tickets for Baylor Basketball.
Carter BloodCare is located at 4332 West Waco Drive, on the corner of New Road and Waco Drive. To schedule a convenient time to give, donors may call Carter BloodCare at 254-399-8546. Donors also may schedule appointments on-line by visiting carterbloodcare.org.
Many modern medical treatments rely on transfusions and would be impossible without a reliable blood supply. Every day, someone in our community will need a blood transfusion for an unexpected accident, a much-needed surgery or regular medical treatment. Blood cannot be stockpiled; it is perishable and the supply must be constantly replenished. Red blood cells have a shelf life of 42 days, and platelets only have five.
Carter BloodCare blood donors receive a mini-physical that includes screenings for pulse, blood pressure and hemoglobin (iron). Carter BloodCare also provides each donor with the results of blood type and cholesterol at no cost.
Potential donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good general health. Most medications do not effect donor eligibility, even those with well-managed diabetes can be donors. For more information about donor eligibility, call Carter BloodCare at 1-800-DONATE-4, or visit carterbloodcare.org.
Carter BloodCare's volunteer donors provide lifesaving blood for patients at over 300 healthcare facilities in 54 North Central and East Texas counties. Carter BloodCare is accredited by the American Association of Blood Banks, licensed by the Food and Drug Administration and is a member of America's Blood Centers.
