May 2008

Together, we do save lives.

 The warm weather will soon be upon us and that means more outdoor recreation and traveling. This is significant for both donors and for patients. As the calendar fills with enticing warm weather activities, blood donors may find it difficult to get into local blood centers. The risk for vehicle accidents increases as more people take to the highways and byways for vacations and family visits.  Please look at your calendars now to schedule your opportunities for blood donation during the summer. Whole blood donors can donate every 56 days. We want to be prepared for every patient in need!

Any Red Cross supporter, adult or teenager, at any location can have their blood donation noted in a Red Cross donor club. Remember to say that you are donating on behalf of the American Red Cross! BloodSource is the blood services partner for the American Red Cross in Merced County. Visit the BloodSource website www.bloodsource.org or call BloodSource – Merced County at 209-724-0428 to make an appointment to donate blood at 382 East Yosemite Ave in Merced or at a community drive.

On Thursday, May 8th, from 9 am to 4:15 pm, BloodSource in Merced will hold a THANKS MOM marrow registry drive as part of a national awareness campaign. 70% of people in need of a bone marrow transplant, often those with leukemia or lymphoma, are unable to find a match in their families and go to the national registry to find a match. Registration is free this day. We are working now with patients like 4 year old Trinity and 7 year old Dominic. You could be the one to save a life! Please check our website for marrow registry information.