The Fourth of July holiday brings over a 20 percent decline in blood donations. However, with an increase in travel and activity, having an adequate supply of blood in all types is crucial for patient care. Make sure that the blood needed during the Fourth of July holiday is there before accidents happen. Give someone else their independence this Independence Day by donating life-saving blood.
Donate blood at a donor center near you or a mobile blood drive between July 1 and July 7. Each donor will receive a special Fourth of July T-shirt and bonus points through our online reward store for a $25 Amazon gift card. Donors also have a chance to win a $100 Amazon gift card EACH day, and a Grand Prize $500 Amazon gift card at the end of the week.
All blood types are always needed, however, donations from donors with O negative type blood, which is the universal blood type and is most transfused in trauma situations, is in high demand year round.
Donors can donate at the Lafayette donor center located at 1503 Bertrand Drive. Donors can schedule an appointment to donate at www.bloodhero.com or call 877-827-4376. Walks in are welcome.
Blood donation takes about an hour from check-in to refreshments. Donors can save about 20 minutes by completing their Fast Track Health History the day they donate. It’s at www.UnitedBloodServices.org.
Volunteer blood donors must be at least 16 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health. Additional height/weight requirements apply to donors 22 and younger, and donors who are 16 and 17 must have signed permission from a parent or guardian.
