From Staff Reports
It takes two to ride a tandem bicycle, sing a duet or play checkers. The American Red Cross says it also takes two to save a life — the generous donor rolling up their sleeve and the Red Cross, working together to ensure life-saving blood is on hospital shelves for patients in need. Locally, you can be a part of a life-saving duo by giving blood at the Corsicana community blood drive from 12:30 to 6:30 p.m. Feb. 5 at the Navarro Shriner’s Building, 323 N. Commerce St.
It also takes two in the community to spread the message of the ongoing need for blood. During January and February, everyone coming to donate at a Red Cross blood drive will receive two great Sonic coupons for one life-saving donation. Redeem your coupon at a participating Sonic and enjoy a free medium cherry limeade, and then use your buy one, get one free Sonic burger coupon for another visit.
“Local Sonic Drive-Ins are excited to be working with the Red Cross to raise the awareness of the need for blood,” said Christina Bell, regional marketing director of Sonic Corporation. “We want to thank blood donors on their next visit to our drive-ins, and thank each one for caring enough to save a life.”
Every two seconds someone in the United States needs blood. Those in need of blood include not only victims of disasters or traumas, but a daily list of scheduled surgeries at area hospitals. From heart surgery to joint replacements, organ transplants or premature babies, leukemia and cancer treatments and many more, these patients can be old or young, family or friends, a next-door neighbor or a visitor to the area.
“We are all connected. We each give and receive: It’s a two-way street. You give blood today, and it may be you or someone you know who receives blood at some point in their life,” said John Hansen, CEO, Southwest Region. “The time taken by one generous individual to give blood can give more precious time to someone in need. Whether it’s two more decades or two more minutes to the person receiving your blood, it’s a true gift.”
For more information or to schedule an appointment, donors should call (800) 448-3543 or visit bloodisneeded.org.
You must 17 years of age, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in general good health to donate blood. The Red Cross reminds those coming to donate to bring a photo ID.
