Published: January 05, 2009 03:31 pm      

Blood drive set for Jan. 20 at Roane State

It takes two to ride a tandem bicycle, sing a duet or play checkers. The American Red Cross reminds you that it also takes two to save a life – the generous donor rolling up his sleeve and the Red Cross, working together to ensure life-saving blood is on hospital shelves for patients in need. Locally, you can be part of a life-saving duo by giving blood Tuesday, Jan. 20, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Roane State Community College located at 2567 Cook Road in Crossville.

In addition, the Crossville Donor Center located at 11 E. First Street is open Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

It also takes two in our community to spread the message of the on-going need for blood. During January and February, everyone presenting to donate at a Red Cross blood drive will receive two great Sonic® coupons for one life-saving donation. Redeem your coupon at a participating Sonic® and enjoy a free medium cherry limeade, and then save your buy one, get one free Sonic® Burger coupon for another visit. 

"Local Sonic Drive-Ins are excited to be working with the Red Cross to raise the awareness of the need for blood," said Christina Bell, Regional Marketing Director for Sonic Corp. "We want to thank blood donors on their next visit to our drive-ins, and thank each one for caring enough to save a life."

Every two seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood. Those in need of blood include not only victims of disasters or traumas but a daily list of scheduled surgeries at area hospitals. From heart surgery to joint replacements, organ transplants to premature babies, leukemia and cancer treatments and many more, these patients can be old or young, family or friends, a next-door neighbor or a visitor to the area.

“We are all connected. We each give and receive; it’s a two-way street. You give blood today, and it may be you or someone you know who receives blood at some point in their life,” says Steve Beeler, CEO, Tennessee Valley Blood Services Region. “The time taken by one generous individual to give blood can give more precious time to someone in need. Whether it’s two more decades or two more minutes, to the person receiving your blood, it’s a true gift.”

For more information or to schedule an appointment, donors should call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE (1-800-448-3543) or visit www.bloodisneeded.org. 

You must be 17 years of age (or 16 with parental consent), weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be in good general health to donate blood. The Red Cross reminds those presenting to donate to bring a photo ID.