Summer break is a time to try new things, travel and visit friends and family. For many of New Mexico’s blood donors, it is a time move back home, take an internship out of state or simply take a break from the normal routine. That is because many of the state’s blood donors are students. From universities to high schools, regular school blood drives dry up in the summer, while the demand continues. World Blood Donor Day is a reminder to continue to give blood throughout the summer months, to make sure hospitals have an adequate supply on a daily basis.
What to Expect
For first-time blood donors or for those whom it has been a while since the last donation, The American Red Cross is a great resource online for everything you need to know to be prepared. Make sure you are hydrated; bring your ID and a list of medications you are currently taking. If possible, boost your iron levels with these iron-rich foods in the days leading up to your scheduled donation. Allow about an hour for the entire donation process, which includes a private interview and short physical, 8 to 10 minutes for the donation and another 10 to 15 minutes to relax after the donation.
Be sure to follow The Red Cross’s recommendations for what you should and should not do after you give blood. Tell friends and family you helped save three lives by giving blood and encourage them to do the same.
Find a Blood Drive near You
There are blood drives throughout New Mexico for the remainder of the summer. Click here to find one near you. Scroll down to “other ways to find a donation appointment”, enter your location and date range. You can schedule an appointment directly from the website. Walk-in availability is usually an option as well.
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