LANCASTER – Finding enough blood donors to sustain an adequate blood supply is a challenge at any time of the year. Add in the stress of a hectic holiday season, and that task becomes even more difficult.
The Antelope Valley Hospital (AVH) Blood Donor Center is showing appreciation to those who take time out of their schedule to donate blood by offering a free, delicious apple or pumpkin pie to the first 20 donors per day who donate a pint of blood on either Tuesday or Wednesday, November 20 or 21.
“We hope that our community members will find they have a little bit of time to help us assure a safe and sufficient local blood supply for our patients who require transfusions,” said AVH Blood Services Coordinator, Ellen Gaines. “Donors might even enjoy having a few minutes to put their feet up and relax while donating.”
All donors receive a free cholesterol test and all blood collected at the AVH Blood Donor Center will be used in the Antelope Valley.
It only takes about 5-10 minutes to give a pint of blood, but donors should plan to spend about an hour in order to complete the whole process.
The AVH Blood Donor Center is located on the hospital campus in the Antelope Valley Outpatient Imaging Center, 44105 15th Street West, Suite 305.
Though the AVH Blood Donor Center will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, the regular hours of operation are Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Wednesdays from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., and the first and third Saturdays of each month from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Walk-ins are welcome, or donors can make an appointment by calling 661-949-5622 during the hours above.
“Giving blood at the AVH Blood Donor Center helps the local community, which may include a member of your family or a close friend,” said Edward Mirzabegian, AVH Chief Executive Officer. “Having an adequate blood supply allows us to perform life-saving procedures and ensure the health of Antelope Valley residents.”
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