With more than 1,600 blood donations needed every month in East Texas, it’s no surprise that during the summer months there is a shortage of blood in our area because schools are out and regular donors are busy with summer vacations and other activities. “Hospitals in East Texas depend on blood donations for traumas, surgeries, premature babies, cancer patients and many others,” says Connie Weaver, Donor Recruitment Coordinator for the Blood Center of East Texas Nacogdoches office.
The City of Nacogdoches employees’ are stepping up to the challenge of the local blood shortage faced by the area and hosting two blood drives, back-to-back. “I am pleased to see our employees coming together to give back to the community and we would like to encourage our citizens’ to join the efforts as well,” states Interim HR Director, Tarah Peace. The donor coach can be found on Wednesday, July 25th 7:30am -11:00am in front of City Hall (202 E. Pilar Street) and 1:00pm-4:30pm in the Police Department parking lot. On Thursday, July 26th the donor coach will be located in the Recreation Center’s park lot at 1112 North Street across from Tipton Ford. “Walk-ins are welcome, but if you prefer to schedule an appointment, give the Human Resources office a call at 559-2567 and we will sign you up,” states Peace.
Giving blood is simple; the entire process – from the time you sign in until the time you leave after enjoying your post-donation cookies and juice – only takes about one hour. The actual whole blood donation takes about 10 minutes. It’s important to drink plenty of water and eat a hearty meal before donating, especially during the hot summer months.
If you are unable to make it to the City’s blood drives on July 25th & 26th, the Blood Center East Texas has two convenient Neighborhood Donor Centers – one at 3520 North University Drive in Nacogdoches and one at 202 South Franklin Street in Lufkin. The Blood Center also has daily blood drives throughout East Texas – visit givebloodet.org for locations.
There could potentially not be a shortage of blood if the antiquated standards by which donors are screened were to be revised.