While it may not be the most talked about need, blood transfusions are vital for many cancer patients to help replenish their bodies after grueling chemotherapy treatments. They’re also critical aid for patients with blood cancers.
In total, approximately 25 percent of the nation’s blood supply helps patients fighting cancer.
Kentuckians can support the fight against cancer and help patients in their community by donating blood at upcoming Kentucky Blood Center drive in Williamsburg. In recognition of national awareness of cancer in September and October, all donors who give blood will receive a “Fight Cancer” T-shirt as a thank you for their lifesaving donation.
The blood drive will take place on Wednesday, Oct. 2, from 10 a.m. – noon at the Williamsburg Tourism and Convention Center, which is located at 650 S. 10th Street.
Donated blood is also needed for everything from traumas to organ transplants, diseases, blood disorders and more. All told, one in four people will need a blood transfusion in their lifetime.
The Kentucky Blood Center (KBC) needs area residents to donate blood and help ensure an adequate blood supply.
Patients at the 70 plus Kentucky hospitals served by KBC rely on donors to roll up their sleeves and save a neighbor with regular blood donations.
Blood products are often used to help cancer patients, trauma patients, women in childbirth and individuals with chronic illnesses, like sickle cell anemia.
Blood donors must be 17-years-old (16 with parental consent), weigh at least 110 pounds, be in general good health, show a photo identification and meet additional requirements. Sixteen-year-olds can donate with a signed parental permission slip, which can be found at kybloodcenter.org.
To schedule a donation, visit kybloodcenter.org or call (800) 775-2522.
