Blood donation could win you a prize

Published or Revised April 14, 2008

Paris Junior College is hosting a community blood drive with Carter BloodCare Stewart Center on Wednesday, April 16, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The blood drive will be held at Student Center lobby at 2400 Clarksville in Paris. Everyone who shows up to donate will receive a free movie pass. Donors who give during March and April will be entered in the "Fuel for Life" drawing, which includes weekly chances to win a $100 gas gift card. One Grand Prize winner will win a year of free gas, up to $1200. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Deanna Young at 903-785-7661. Local patients need blood 365 days a year. Repeat donors and those asking to be contacted when their blood type is needed are lifesavers, as they ensure the blood center has a consistent supply of all blood types. While all blood types are needed, the blood center makes a special request to Type-O donors to give often. Type-O donors are the first line of defense for trauma victims. Until a blood type can be verified, Type-O blood is used to keep most trauma victims alive. Once their blood type is determined, type-specific blood is transfused. Potential donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be in good general health. People planning to give blood should eat a nourishing meal before donating and must bring a photo ID. For more information about donor eligibility, call Carter BloodCare Stewart Center at 1-800-252-5584, or visit www.carterbloodcare.org.