Blood drive marks Black History Month

The American Red Cross reports that every two seconds someone need blood, and is gearing up for its next Putnam County blood drive.

In recognition of Black History Month, the organization is calling attention to the special contribution that African Americans have made to the organization, historically and today, to help ensure the nation has a safe and adequate blood supply.

Among distinguished African Americans in the American Red Cross, Dr. Charles drew is celebrated for developing blood plasma processing and transfusion therapy.

Continuing his legacy, African Americans fulfill an important role as blood donors. The American Red Cross reports that over half of the African American population has type O blood, the universal blood type, which can be transfused into any patient in an emergency.

This trait gives the African American population who has type O blood a unique opportunity to support the community blood supply.

Help the community one pint at a time by giving blood on Friday, Feb. 29, from 1 to 7 p.m. at Deer Meadow Elementary School in Auxiliary Gymnasium located at 1000 Deer Meadow Lane in Greencastle.

If you are at least 17-years-old, weigh a minimum of 110 lbs and are in good health, you may be eligible to donate blood.

All donors need to present positive identification.

For more information or to schedule your blood donation appointment, please call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE (1-800-448-3543)