New Year's Resolution-Help Others By Donating Blood

A safe and robust blood supply is a core component of our local health care system. Blood donations are one of the most important things you can do to help others in need. Blood must be available when we or our loved ones need surgery, give birth, or receive treatment for cancer or a chronic condition such as sickle cell disease.

Sadly, the United States is experiencing a significantly low blood supply, dropping to a concerning level that has not been seen in over a decade. To help fill the need, Southeast Georgia Health System will partner with the American Red Cross to host a community blood drive on Friday, January 21, 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., in the Kemble Conference Room, 3011 Kemble Avenue, adjacent to the Brunswick Campus. Social distancing protocols will be implemented and face masks will be required.

There is no substitute for blood, and it cannot be manufactured. Every day, blood donors help patients of all ages from all backgrounds--just one donation can potentially save up to three lives.

Your blood donation has the most significant effect on those closest to you--in your community. Southeast Georgia Health System encourages those who are eligible and feeling healthy, including people who have had a COVID-19 vaccine, to donate blood. All blood donations are tested for the COVID-19 antibody.

Donors are asked to visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter “sghsys” to schedule an appointment, or call 800-RED-CROSS (800-733-2767).

Donors can save up to 15 minutes at the blood drive by reading and completing the RapidPass® pre-donation health history questionnaire. To complete a RapidPass®, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Red Cross Blood Donor App