"It is important to come together as a community to help one another," Melody Smith of United Blood Services said. "Please take a few minutes to help save lives and come out to the Gore Nursing Home and donate blood. Donors will receive a free gift, and be entered into a contest to win a 2008 Nissan Versa."
The car will be given away Sept. 2.
"All you have to do to be entered is to donate blood," Smith said.
Smith urged all residents of Sequoyah County donate blood.
"We're hoping to see many familiar faces as well as people who have donated in the past and were turned away the last time for one reason or another," Smith said.
The rules on blood donation have changed. The year-long deferral for a tattoo no longer applies. In most cases those who have recently had a tattoo can donate blood now.
"We'll do a health history and mini-physical to make sure it's O.K. for you to give," Smith said.
Blood donors must be 17 years or older and in good health. People who have given at least three times-with one of those donations in the past six months-are eligible for a streamlined health interview with fewer questions before their donation. Donors are asked to bring a photo ID and Donor Card every time they donate. First-time donors receive a Donor Card with their blood type in the mail shortly after their first donation. And United Blood Services provides a free cholesterol test on all donations.
Potential donors can schedule an appointment by calling Smith at (479) 651-7168 or by logging on to www.UnitedBloodServices.org.
