Donate blood

WINFIELD — The Winfied Lions Club will host an ImpactLife blood drive next Wednesday, Aug. 28 from 3-6:15 at the Winfield VFW.

According to ImpactLife every two seconds in the United States someone needs blood. Each donation received at events like this blood drive can help up to three people get the blood they need.

Those wishing to participate must be 16 years or older with parental consent or above 17 years of age. Donors must also weigh at least 110 pounds. Additional restrictions or requirements are available at bloodcenter.org

Only a few time slots remain available for the blood drive. To register visit https://login.bloodcenter.org/.../drive_schedule/127161 or contact Join McArtor at washcorealayforlife@yahoo.com or (319) 461-5886

ImpactLife suggests donors get eight hours of sleep and eat a hearty evening and morning meal. To help stabilize blood pressure, they should also drink lots of water and minimize caffeine as the body will lose about two cups of fluid during donation, so being fully hydrated is important.

When arriving to donate, participants will answer screening questions and undergo a mini-physical. Next a phlebotomist will take their donation. The actual donation should only take approximately 8-10 minutes.

Following the donation, individuals should drink fluids and eat a light snack.

Comments: AnnaMarie.Ward@southeastiowaunion.com