The heat is on for donors this summer! Donors this month will receive a $15 e-gift card for their donation and free A1C testing. The A1C test measures the percentage of red blood cells that have sugar-coated hemoglobin, and it reflects an average blood glucose level over the past 3 months. It is used to help diagnose prediabetes and Type 2 diabetes, and for the month of August, testing is free. 

Here’s how to donate in Underwood: 

1. Check Eligibility Requirements

More people can donate blood than ever before. Before you book an appointment to donate, be sure to confirm your eligibility. If you have eligibility concerns, you may call 866-236-3276.

 

2. Schedule an appointment.

 

3. Complete your Rapid Pass paperwork. 

This process is best done in a private location, online in advance of your appointment. It should take roughly 10-15 minutes to complete and if not done in advance, it will be required on-site at the time of donation. Completing the Rapid Pass paperwork process early will save time during your appointment and reduce overall wait times at the blood drive event. When prompted, be sure to use zip code 98651 on your form.

 

 

4. Download the Blood Donor App. 

This is not required, but it is encouraged! The free Blood Donor app puts the power to save lives in the palm of your hand. Schedule and manage appointments, complete your RapidPass® paperwork, get notified when your blood is on its way to a patient, view results from your mini-physical, and more.

 

 

 

 

 

What is the age requirement for donating blood?
The minimum age for making a donation is 16. 17 -year olds (and up) do not need parental consent. 16-year-olds need parental consent and parents must accompany their child for the donation. 

 

Bring your Drivers License or Red Cross Blood Donor Card. We also encourage you to download the Blood Donor app in advance of the blood drive.  

 

Drink plenty of water before you donate and make sure to be well-rested the day of your appointment. Eat a healthy meal, avoiding fatty foods like hamburgers, fries or ice cream, and wear a shirt with sleeves that you can roll up above your elbows.  All these things will make the donation process easier. Here’s a complete guide to navigating your donation day.  Questions? Call 866-236-3276. 

 

I can’t donate blood, but I’d still like to help. Are there other volunteer opportunities available?
You bet!  Volunteering to help with an upcoming blood drive in Underwood is a great way to contribute to the cause! Reach out to our blood drive organizer, Lisa Brown, for details.