Donors urged to give blood, help blood supply match patient diversity

CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (CLARKSVILLENOW) – The American Red Cross urges people of all races and ethnicities to give blood to help ensure a diverse blood supply for patients in need.

The vast majority of blood types fall into one of the major ABO groups. However, some blood types are unique to certain racial and ethnic groups, so a diverse blood supply is important to meeting the medical needs of an increasingly diverse patient population.

All blood types are needed to ensure that the right blood product is available at the right time for all patients. Make an appointment to donate blood by downloading the free American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

As a thank-you, those who come to donate blood or platelets through Sept. 30, 2018, will receive a coupon via email for a free haircut at participating Sport Clips locations. More information is available at RedCrossBlood.org/sport-clips.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities Sept. 16-30:

Byrd Health Clinic, 7973 Strike Blvd. Fort Campbell, KY 42223
9/20/2018: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Blanchfield Army Hospital, 650 Joel Drive Fort Campbell, KY 42223
9/21/2018: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Fort Campbell Commissary, 2606 Indiana Ave. Fort Campbell, KY 42223
9/28/2018: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

First Baptist Church Dickson, 2501 Highway 70 East Dickson TN 37055
9/17/2018: 2 – 7 p.m.

YMCA Dickson, 301 Henslee Drive Dickson, TN 37055
9/25/2018: 3 – 7 p.m.

American Red Cross, 1760 Madison St. Clarksville, TN 37043
9/17/2018: 10:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
9/24/2018: 10:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

How to donate blood
Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.