NORTH FORK, CA – The North Fork Lions Club is excited to announce its biannual Blood Drive on November 5, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, in the parking lot of North Fork Supermarket. To thank all donors, free hot dogs will be served! The Lions Club has a long-standing tradition of community service, and this blood drive is just one of the many ways they contribute. Since 1973, the Lions Club has proudly organized blood drives twice a year. When I spoke with John Thomas, the Blood Drive Chairman, about the previous drive and asked how many pints had been donated, he remarked, “Not enough.” Let’s aim to change that this time!
Why Donate Blood?
Donating blood is a simple and rewarding process. After a quick screening and vital checks, the actual donation takes only about 15 to 20 minutes. In most cases, you can complete your visit in under 45 minutes. It’s a fantastic opportunity to serve others and connect with your neighbors.
The Importance of Your Contribution
Every minute of every day, there is a crucial need for blood donations. If you’re among the 4.5 million Americans who receive transfusions each year, knowing your blood type can be lifesaving. Type O blood is especially vital, as it is the most frequently used type in emergencies.
Those with O negative blood—about 7% of the population—are even more essential to the donation effort. Your contributions can save the lives of premature infants, trauma patients with unknown blood types, and women experiencing complications during childbirth.
Components of Blood That Matter
Blood donation goes beyond just providing whole blood; it saves lives through its vital components. Platelets, which help with clotting, are crucial for cancer patients and others fighting severe illnesses. Plasma, on the other hand, is often administered to trauma, burn, and shock patients, as well as those with liver diseases or clotting disorders. An automated process separates these life-saving components, ensuring that your red blood cells are safely returned to you.
Make a Difference
Join us on November 5 and become a part of this noble mission. Your donation could be the difference between life and death for someone in need. Blood donations will be handled by The Central California Blood Center. Together, let’s ensure we have enough blood for our community!
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