Non-profit regional blood center, Blood Assurance needs community support.ξ They continue to experience critically low levels of O negative blood and AB plasma, which are both universal donors and can be received by patients with all blood types.
“Donations improved last week and we were thrilled to see the community rally, unfortunately, several area hospitals required large supplies of blood over the weekend, so we’re back at critically low levels.” said Mindy Quinn, marketing manager for Blood Assurance.
“We are hoping we can get our regular donors to come in and donate again before they head out of town on for Spring break, and we’re asking those who have never donated before to come visit Blood Assurance today and give.”
All donors who give in the Columbia donation center or at a local drive on Tuesday, March 22 and Wednesday, March 23 will receive an email redemption code for a free fandango movie ticket just in time for the new Batman v Superman movie opening this coming weekend.ξ The center is located at 1412 Trottwood Avenue, Suite 69, in Neely’s Mill.
To be eligible to donate blood, you must be at least 17 years old (16 years old with parental consent), weigh 110 pounds or more and be in good health. Donors are asked to drink plenty of fluids – avoiding caffeine – and eat a meal that is rich in protein prior to donating.
Donating blood takes roughly 30 minutes, plasma donations take closer to an hour.ξ One blood donation can help save three lives. All donors will receive a snack and complimentary gift.
To schedule an appointment please call 800-962-0628.ξ For more information on Blood Assurance, donating blood or hosting a blood drive, please visit www.bloodassurance.org.
