Masons collect blood for Red Cross

The Aug. 28 blood drive hosted by Shallotte Masonic Lodge 727 resulted in 25 units of blood collected. Among those donating were several individuals donating blood for the first time.
The blood received at the drive was immediately typed and underwent a battery of tests in Red Cross laboratories. The blood then became available to help patients in area hospitals. Because a unit of blood can be separated into its various components, one donation can impact as many as three lives.
Nationally, someone needs blood every two seconds. The Carolinas Blood Services Region of the American Red Cross must collect 1,600 units of blood each day to meet the needs of patients in the 110 area hospitals it serves.
“We are extremely grateful to the Masons for their support of the American Red Cross,” said Tanya Tilley-Hall, donor recruitment representative with the American Red Cross. “Grand Master Gresham and member Al Parker realized that we had an emergency need for blood and stepped up to help.”
“We wanted to do our part to help,” said Al Parker, blood drive sponsor and lodge member.
To schedule an appointment to donate blood, visit www.redcrossblood.org or call (800) RED-CROSS (733-2767). Blood donors must be at least 17 years of age, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be in general good health. All donors are required to present a form of positive identification.