The Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center is reminding blood donors – and potential blood donors – that the need for donations is high during this holiday period.
Platelet donations are especially needed right now because demand from area hospitals is up.
The Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office is currently holding a second blood drive for injured Deputy John Norsworthy. Officials said the drive, held until 4 at the Sheriff’s Office, 1410 Williams Way Blvd. in Richmond, is “going steady” and the wait is brief.
Blood Center officials said more than 1,000 donations are needed daily in the Texas Gulf Coast regional to help patients like critically-injured Fort Bend County Deputy Sheriff John Norsworthy.
Norsworthy needed numerous units of blood following a serious on-duty traffic accident Monday evening.
During New Year’s Eve, the Blood Center will have special hours of operation for donors. Center locations will be open 7 a.m. – 3 p.m. on New Year’s Eve for those wanting to donate.
Center locations will be closed on New Year’s Day, but will return their regular schedule starting Jan. 2.
There are 17 donations centers located across the Gulf Coast region. For hours and locations, go to www.giveblood.org or call 888-482-5663.
The Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center is the primary supplier of blood components to more than 170 hospitals and health care facilities in the 26-county Gulf Coast region.
Donors must be at least 17 years of age, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be in good general health. Individuals who are 16 years old, at least 122 pounds, in good general health and have parental consent also may be eligible to donate.
The donation process is simple, taking only about an hour to complete.
