Celebrate Spring by Donating Blood
News Release: April 10, 2008
Contact: Janice Osborne, Director-Communications and Marketing; American Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley (610) 865-4400, ext. 262; pager (610) 508-4378

There is no better way to celebrate the season of giving life than to donate blood to help save lives.

The American Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley will be holding two drives in Carbon County this month:

• Thursday, April 24, from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., at Jim Thorpe Memorial Hall, West 10th Street, Jim Thorpe (refreshments provided courtesy of Jim Thorpe Markets); and

• Wednesday, April 30, from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., at Blue Mountain Health System, Sixth and Iron streets, Lehighton.

As a special thank you for donating blood and to celebrate the season, donors will automatically receive a complimentary packet of seeds.

Anyone who is at least 17 years old, who weighs at least 110 pounds, and is healthy may give blood or platelets. With the submission of a signed parental consent form, 16-year-olds who weigh at least 110 pounds and are in good health also can donate blood. Parental consent forms are available from nurse supervisors at Red Cross drives.

Can’t make the scheduled blood collection dates in your area? Not a problem. Call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE (1-800-448-3543) to schedule a donation appointment at your convenience.

The American Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley serves nearly 690,000 residents of Carbon, Lehigh and Northampton counties. Last year the Red Cross provided health and safety education training; Lifeline, a personal response service for seniors; and emergency relief to more than 23,000 Greater Lehigh Valley residents. For more information about the American Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley or volunteer opportunities, call (610) 865-4400 or visit www.redcrosslv.org.