Red Cross Blood Drive Planned In Elgin On April 21

Spring into action and donate blood at the American Red Cross Blood Drive in Elgin on Tuesday, April 21.

Donations will be accepted from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus Hall, located at 117 S. 2nd St. in Elgin.


"Donated blood is perishable and must be constantly replenished to keep up with the demand," said Katie Marshall of the Red Cross. "Red blood cells, with a shelf life of only 42 days, are the most frequently transfused blood component, and are always needed by hospitals. 

Eligible donors can give red cells through either a regular whole blood donation or a double red cell donation, where available. Double red cell donations yield twice the usual amount of red cells in a single appointment and are accepted at select donation locations. Double red cell donors must meet additional eligibility criteria, which will be determined at the donation appointment. 

Donors with all blood types are needed, especially those with types O negative, A negative and B negative. Whole blood can be donated every 56 days, and double red cells may be donated every 112 days, up to three times per year.

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