August 30, 2021 ─ Oklahoma Blood Institute’s Bedlam Blood Battle is here and no matter which side you’re on, your donation will make a lifesaving difference for a fellow Oklahoman.
Join Red River Technology Center at a blood drive with Oklahoma Blood Institute from 7:30 to 2:30, on Wednesday, September 8 at Red River technology center in the business building room 523.
Successful blood donors will receive their choice of an “OSU orange” or “OU crimson” Bedlam t-shirt and Middle School “Be the Change” t-shirt. Walking tacos will be served.
In addition, for a limited time only, all donors will receive Hemoglobin A1C blood sugar testing, which can help monitor diabetes risk.
“No matter which team you’re backing in the Bedlam Blood Battle, blood donation has always been an easy way to help a neighbor,” said Dr. John Armitage, President and CEO of Oklahoma Blood Institute. “Now, it’s also an easy and free way to test your average blood sugar level to be better informed about your health. We’re excited to offer this testing to our donors as part of their lifesaving blood donation.”
Oklahoma Blood Institute relies on 1,200 volunteer blood donors a day to meet the needs of patients at more than 160 hospitals and medical facilities as well as all air ambulances statewide. Anyone who is healthy and 16 years old* or older can give blood. Blood can be donated every 56 days. Platelets can be given as often as every seven days, up to 24 times a year.
Appointments to donate can be made online at obi.org or by calling 877-340-8777. While COVID-19 vaccination is not required of blood donors, those who have been vaccinated can donate immediately, assuming they are feeling well. Blood donation typically takes only about an hour, and one donation saves up to three lives.
*16-year-olds must weigh at least 125 pounds and provide signed parental permission; 17-year-olds must weigh at least 125 pounds; 18+ year olds must weigh at least 110 pounds. Photo ID required.
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Oklahoma Blood Institute is the 6th-largest independent blood center in the nation, providing more than 90% of Oklahoma’s blood supply to over 160 hospitals and medical facilities. For more information, visit obi.org.