Blood drive at BPC set for April 24

MOUNT VERNON -- The deployment of area National Guard forces has significantly depleted the number of customary blood donors and resulted in a blood supply level for the American Red Cross Southern Region Blood Services that is below safe levels.

To alleviate the everyday need for blood on a regional basis, Rho Lambda Chi and Delta Sigma Chi of Brewton-Parker College are working with the American Red Cross Southern Region Blood Services to have a blood drive Thursday, April 24, on the Brewton-Parker campus in Mount Vernon.

The Bloodmobile will be open behind Gates Hall from 1:30-6:30 p.m.

Nancy Martin, senior account manager for the southern region, said the region's supply of blood is below safe inventory levels, and those for types O and B blood are especially low.

A large portion of the blood collected in this country is needed for surgeries and the everyday treatment of diseases such as cancer and sickle cell anemia.

People who donate blood are seen as everyday heroes to each person who has ever needed a blood transfusion.

To become an everyday hero and set an appointment for the blood drive, contact Michael Aoa, director of student activities at Brewton-Parker, at 583-3186.

Patrons unable to make the April 24 blood drive but wishing to donate at an alternate time and site may contact the American Red Cross by calling 1-800-GIVE-LIFE (1 800-448-3543) or by logging on at www.givelife.org.

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