Marsh Regional Blood Center will have its Annual 9/11 Memorial Blood Drive today from 10 AM to 6 PM at Bristol Motor Speedway’s north entrance.
According to a press release, donations during the blood drive will honor individuals who lost their lives during the tragic events of 9/11 with a special name card given to each donor. All donors will earn a special-edition T-shirt and a 20-oz. tumbler.
“In the weeks after Sept. 11, 2001, people wanted to help in whatever way they could, so they came out in droves to give blood,” said Steffanie Sukel, director of Marsh Regional. “We wanted to honor that selflessness, so we began the 9/11 memorial blood drive to give our community members the chance to continue the legacy of saving lives through blood donation. This is an annual drive that really lets the generosity and heroism of our region shine.”
As many as three lives can be saved with one blood donation.
Requirements for donors:
- must be at least 17 years old
- weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health
- people with a cold, sore throat, fever, flu or fever blisters, or those who are taking antibiotics are not eligible to donate
- donors should eat a well-balanced meal before giving blood.
In addition to the 9/11 memorial blood drive, donors are welcome to give blood year-round at Marsh Regional’s donor centers:
- Bristol, 1996 West State Street: 423-652-0014
- Johnson City, 2428 Knob Creek Road: 423-282-7090
- Kingsport, 111 West Stone Drive: 423-408-7500
Appointments are preferred for in-center donations and can be made by scheduling online at www.marshblood.com/donation-centers. Walk-ins are also welcome.
A schedule of upcoming mobile drives taking place across the Appalachian Highlands is available at www.marshblood.com/events.
Like many donor centers across the nation, Marsh Regional’s blood supply remains at serious levels for all blood types, driving a significant need for blood and blood products, such as platelets. Donors with O-negative blood type are particularly welcome, as their blood can be used for any patient.
Donations received through Marsh Regional stay in the Appalachian Highlands to help local patients and are used in emergency and life-threatening situations, as well as to treat patients with cancer and other health conditions.
