Donate During August Blood Drive

Thursday, August 4, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., Eastsound Fire Station

— from Leif —

Just a month after our wonderful July Fourth Orcas celebration, the Orcas Lions, Fire & Rescue Dept., and other organizations are hosting the next Blood Drive, Thursday August Fourth.

Parade Grand Marshal Marlyn Myers currently receives regular transfusions of donated blood components as part of her ongoing cancer therapy. Photo credit: Steve Smith

And we are honoring our Fourth of July parade Grand Marshal, Marlyn Myers who wants us to know that she must receive regular transfusions of donated blood components as part of her ongoing cancer therapy. Thank you Marlyn for letting us put a face on the statistics of the thousands that rely on donated blood not only in emergencies, but for other life sustaining medical uses.

Orcas Island’s mostly repeat donors will supply nearly 10% of the 800 Units required just on that day, August 4, by our neighbors, and by patients around the Pacific Northwest. It is during summer that need increases and donations decrease by 15%. This summer there is an additional 10% disparity creating a great need for all blood types, especially “O” and “AB.”

Thanks again to the local businesses that support this outreach with displays, and some who have encouraged their employees and visitors to come donate on a break. Once again we are starting one hour earlier, 11:00 AM, so that busy islanders may schedule a donation during their “Noon” hour.

Reserve your time slot, go to this page* at the Bloodworksnw.org site any time, or call 1-800-398-7888 during business hours. Bring your lunch, we’ll provide the drink and dessert. [Alas, no Orcas school student fresh baked cookies this time!]

If you are new to Orcas or visiting and unfamiliar with the Metropolis of Eastsound, the Fire House is just north of town, across from the airport, walk-ins/fly-ins welcome. You can’t get lost.

Future dates this year: Sep 29, Dec 15. You can reserve ahead.