On behalf of United Blood Services staff, regional hospitals, health centers and patients, I am writing to express my heartfelt thanks to the many community residents that donated blood at the Neighborhood Hero Blood Drive April 20-22 at the Eye Clinic of Meridian. The turn-out for the drive was truly impressive; in fact it set a three-day drive record for United Blood Services!
Our goal was to collect 750 units, but with the gracious support of community blood donors we collected 1,033 units of blood which will be used to help save lives of many area patients who need blood or blood products.
United Blood Services is the sole provider of blood and blood products to 66 hospitals and health centers in Mississippi and West Alabama. In 2008, the greater Meridian area alone used more than 36,000 units of blood and almost 3,000 units of platelets. Unfortunately, almost 6,000 units were imported from other areas in the country to help meet the demand of our local health centers. That is why the success of community blood drives like the Neighborhood Hero Blood Drive is essential to the health of our communities.
I want to encourage all residents to donate blood or blood products at least three times a year. We are especially in high need of platelet donors on the weekends. Our center is located at 1115 25th Ave. in Meridian. We are open seven days a week. Our hours are Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 11 am - 6 pm; Tuesday 9 am – 4 pm; Saturday 9 am – 2 pm; Sunday 1-5 pm. Mobile blood drives are also out in our communities. To check mobile blood drive schedules or to make an appointment, call 601.482.2482 or visit www.UnitedBloodServices.org. Walk-ins are welcome.
Again, thank you to the Eye Clinic of Meridian, The Radio People, The Meridian Star, all of our sponsors and especially blood donors who came out and donated. Your selfless act of kindness saves lives!
JW Chapman
Director of Center Operations
United Blood Services
