Blood drive set Thursday

By Melinda L. Lucas

Even during unusual times like the current coronavirus pandemic, regular blood donations are needed in order to ensure the continued adequacy of the supply at area hospitals, so Hendrick’s bloodmobile is in Albany on Thursday, June 25 for the regularly scheduled Kiwanis Club sponsored blood drive.

Hendrick Regional Blood Center will park its bloodmobile at First Baptist Church at the usual time from 1:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m.

Blood center marketing manager Kelsey Caprio said last week that even though the area blood supply is “stable,” it is not unusual to see a dip in donors during the summer months.

Caprio added that the safety of donors and staff is definitely a priority, and the center appreciates the community’s patience and understanding if the process of donating takes a little longer than usual with the extra precautions being taken.

Part of that safety process is requiring donors to wear a mask at all times.

Caprio said this week that the number of people allowed in the blood mobile is back to normal capacity of 12 people at a time, including the staff.

“Instead of being outside, screenings for -COVID-19 now happen inside the interview room prior to the normal donor history questionnaire,” Caprio said.

She added that staff members are still being screened daily and are wearing the proper personal protective equipment.

Blood drives in Albany have been sponsored by the Kiwanis Club for over 20 years.

Donors supply 100 percent of the blood that is used at 17 area hospitals. 

The Kiwanis Club blood drives are scheduled roughly every eight weeks throughout the year. The next one is set for Aug. 20.

Local Kiwanians urge community members to donate blood to help ensure that patients have a supply of blood ready and waiting before an emergency occurs.

Those who have eligibility questions can call Freddie Sosa at 325-670-2880. Other concerns or questions can be directed to Caprio at 325-670-4271.