First Congregational of Dundee to hold blood drive Aug. 31

Submitted by First Congregational Church

First Congregational Church of Dundee, in conjunction with Heartland Blood Centers, will host a blood drive from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Aug. 31, in the lower level common area, 900 S. Eighth St., West Dundee. Don’t leave this important community responsibility to others. Remember, the need for blood never takes a vacation.

Patients in the 49 area hospitals who rely on Heartland for all of their transfusion needs require more than 600 units every day for their surgery and treatment. After assuring that these patients’ blood needs are met, Heartland maintains a limited surplus supply of blood products on hand in order to respond to any local or national emergencies.

As a thank you to those who support the volunteer blood donor program, all donors who give blood in August will receive a certificate good for $7 in retail purchases at Oberweis Ice Cream and Dairy Stores, compliments of Heartland Blood Centers.

This promotion recognizes and rewards blood donors who take time out of their busy summer schedules to donate blood. In addition, all blood donors who join Heartland’s “Warm Hearts” club by going to www.heartlandbc.org, will earn points toward premium gifts and gift cards of their choice.

To be a blood donor, individuals must be at least 17 years old or 16 with written parental permission; weigh at least 110 pounds; be symptom free of cold, flu and allergies and be in general good health. All volunteers receive free mini-medical exams on site and information about their temperature, pulse rate, blood pressure and hemoglobin level. Donors who have traveled outside the U.S. within the past 12 months should contact Heartland to determine eligibility. Note that donors are required to bring a photo ID with them to the blood drive. Call Rick Gilmore at (847) 421-8676 for information or to schedule an appointment. Walk-ins are welcome. Visit www.fccdundee.com.