Eastham/Orleans Blood Drive Wednesday, August 20, 2008

Eastham/Orleans is holding a community blood drive to help boost regional blood supply

It?s summertime and the living is good. But for the region?s blood supply, all is not well. There is an ongoing need for blood. The summer season traditionally sees a 10% - 15% drop in blood donations due to many blood donors vacationing and fewer blood drives being sponsored by schools.   But summer is also a season with increased outdoor activities such as biking, boating, hiking and swimming. The need for blood, to treat the types of injuries that may occur from these activities, typically increases.

This summer, make sure the living is good for local hospital patients. Donate blood. In an effort to increase the regional blood supply, Eastham/Orleans will hold a community blood drive with the American Red Cross. The drive will be held on Wednesday, August 20, 2008, at the Elks Lodge, One McKoy Road, Eastham, MA and the hours are 12:00 p.m. ? 6:00 p.m.

The statistics are clear. About every two seconds, someone in America needs blood. Every day, 34,000 donations are needed in the United States to help save the lives of cancer patients, accident victims, children with blood disorders among others. This affects every member of our community, where they work, live and play, whether it's a friend, family or neighbor who needs blood. Just one pint of blood can help save as many as three lives.

To make an appointment to give blood, call 1-800-GIVE LIFE or visit www.givelife.org to locate the Eastham/Orleans Community blood drive.

Release courtesy of the American Red Cross.