Local blood drive set today

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 Regional Blood Center’s bloodmobile is in Albany on Thursday, Aug. 20 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.

The blood center is now offering COVID-19 antibody testing at no charge for donors who successfully donate. Blood that is collected at the Abilene facility or at one of the mobile blood drives will be tested for coronavirus antibodies. 

Blood center marketing manager Kelsey Caprio said 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.

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

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

The blood center depends on volunteer blood donors to supply 100 percent of the blood that is used for patient care at 17 area hospitals. 

The Kiwanis Club blood drives are scheduled roughly every eight weeks throughout the year. The next one is set for Oct. 15.

Local Kiwanians urge community members to donate blood to help ensure that patients in the hospitals served 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.