Each year, 4.5 million Americans would die without blood transfusions. Donating is easy and most people are eligible. A majority of medications do not interfere with the donation process. A complete list of acceptable medications and eligibility requirements is located on the Lifesource website.

Students can sign up any day this week during all lunch periods. All donors must be at least sixteen years of age and bring a valid photo ID. Sixteen-year-olds will need a permission slip signed by their parents in order to participate.

The waiver can be found here: http://www.lifesource.org/files/2014/11/ParentalConsentForm-8-5-14.pdf

Before donating, eat a low-fat, iron rich breakfast and lunch. Drink plenty of water and other non-caffeinated beverages.

Donation occurs in the fieldhouse during students’ regular gym period. Students are excused for the duration of the donation process and provided with snacks and juice afterward.

Athletes, be sure to discuss donating blood with your coaches, as it takes at least 24 hours to replenish the blood’s plasma and four to six weeks to completely replace donated red blood cells. This typically causes athletes to miss a day of practice in order to avoid overexertion after donation.

Find a group of friends and sign up to donate! Donating blood is a great cause and simple way to give back to the community.