Myrtle Beach Leader

Community members are strongly encouraged to donate during two Tidelands Health blood drives this month to help replenish low supplies in the region.

Blood suppliers have warned there’s an urgent need for donors amid the ongoing supply shortage. Traditionally, fewer people donate in the summer, especially around the Fourth of July holiday, which leads to an even greater shortage in the blood supply. Blood supplies are routinely used to support the care and treatment of a variety of patients, including those battling cancer, those who were involved in an accident and those needing transfusions.

“We strongly encourage community members to donate during the upcoming blood drives to help ensure we continue to have adequate blood supply to serve our patients,” said Ashley Capps, vice president of nursing and operations at Tidelands Health. “Our patients – your neighbors, loved ones, co-workers and more – rely on the generosity of community members to donate blood to keep adequate supplies available.”

Tidelands Health is partnering with the American Red Cross to sponsor two blood drives this month:

• Friday, July 8, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Waccamaw Medical Park South, 4367 Riverwood Drive, Murrells Inlet
• Monday, July 25, 8 a.m.-1 p.m., Tidelands HealthPoint Center for Health and Fitness, 12965 Ocean Highway, Pawleys Island

Donors at these blood drives in July will automatically be entered to win a “Shark Week” outdoor adventure merchandise package from Discovery that includes a beach bike, smokeless portable fire pit, paddleboard, kayak and a $500 gift card to use toward accessories. The American Red Cross is sponsoring the contest as a thank you to those who donate blood in July.

Donors can schedule an appointment at redcrossblood.org. Appointments will take priority, but walk-ins are welcome.

Blood donors must be healthy, at least 17 years old and weigh at least 110 pounds. Be sure to bring a valid ID. People who are feeling ill should postpone donating blood until they feel healthy and are symptom-free.

###

About Tidelands Health

Tidelands Health is the region’s largest health care provider and MUSC Health affiliate, serving the Carolinas at four hospitals and more than 70 outpatient locations. More than 2,500 employee, physician and volunteer partners work side by side with our communities to transform the health of our region – promoting wellness, preventing illness, encouraging recovery and restoring health.

Contact:

Dawn Bryant, Senior Communications Strategist

dbryant@tidelandshealth.org, 8436521636

Original source can be found here.