Blood drive set for May 8

Southwest Virginia Community Health Systems is hosting a blood drive with Marsh Regional Blood Center on Wednesday, May 8, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The blood mobile will be set up in the parking lot of Tazewell Community Health Center.

Prior to donating blood, Marsh Regional Blood Center recommends being at least 17-years-old (if 17-years-old, you must have a parent/guardians permission), weigh at least 110 pounds or more, eat a well-balanced meal within four to six hours of blood donation, and be in general good health on the day you donate. If you currently have a cold, sore throat, fever, flu, fever blisters or are taking antibiotics, you will not be able to donate. When you donate whole blood, you give roughly one pint – or 500 mL – of blood. This donation can save up to three lives and takes less than an hour. The entire process of donating blood – from the health questionnaire and physical to the actual donation and refreshments – typically takes less than one hour

The needle stick itself only lasts a second, and the actual donation only takes an average of 8–10 minutes. If you have questions about specific medications or medical conditions, call the blood bank at 423-408-7500.

Appointments are not required and walk-ins are welcome.

Marsh Regional Blood Center is encouraging all who are able to please sign up and donate due to a need for blood donations.