Community encouraged to donate September 29

September 19, 2022 (Hereford, TX) – Deaf Smith County Hospital District is hosting a community blood drive September 29 from noon to 5 p.m. at the hospital (540 W. 15^th Street, Hereford) in partnership with the Coffee Memorial Blood Center.

The blood center is also hosting two other blood drives in Hereford at the Hereford Civic Center on September 20 and 21 from noon to 7 p.m.

“I encourage everyone who is eligible to give the gift of life,” said Jeff Barnhart, CEO, Deaf Smith County Hospital District. “The procedure is safe and simple, and the impact is tremendous.”

Approximately 5 million patients need blood each year. A single blood donation has the potential to save three lives in the event a patient needs a blood transfusion because of surgery, an accident or injury, or a serious condition like leukemia or kidney disease that can cause anemia.

“Deaf Smith County Hospital District’s partnership with area blood centers is essential for our ability to deliver lifesaving care every day in our community,” said Barnhart. “When you donate blood, you’re helping your friends and neighbors.”

Donors must be 17 years of age or older. Sixteen-year-olds may donate with a permission slip signed by a parent or legal guardian. All donors must present photo ID. Pregnant women are not eligible to donate blood. The process takes about an hour, including registration, a brief medical screening, blood collection, and refreshments following the collection.