Menchville is having its annual blood drive Friday, November 4th from 8:00am to 1:00pm. The event is sponsored by the Key Club and will be held in the big gym. Donors will receive a limited edition Red Cross T-shirt, while supplies last!

To sign up see Coach Zollicoffer during lunches outside the cafeterias, or after school in room 116.

“This area gives about 650 pints (of blood) per day and our goal(for Menchville) is about 67 pints,” said Zollicoffer.  “Everyone generally knows at least one person that has needed blood and if you don’t know someone,  ask yourself if you have known anyone that was a premature baby, has had or has cancer, has been in an accident or has a chronic illness. The blood can’t be artificially produced. Most high schools and colleges provide at least 25% of the blood supply.”

In order to donate blood you must be 17 years or older, be in good general health and feeling well, and weigh at least 110 lbs.

• Why should you donate blood?

You should donate because someday a family member or friend may need it. Your blood could save somebodies life one day.

• Are there any health benefits to donating blood?

A health benefit would be getting a mini physical to check your pulse, blood pressure, body temperature, and hemoglobin.

• What should you do to prepare to give blood?

Have a light meal and plenty to drink, bring your donor card, driver’s license or two other forms of identification and bring the names of medications you are taking.

• The actual donation process has 4 steps:

1. Registration
2. Mini physical
3. The donation
4. Refreshment

You can donate blood (whole) every 56 days.

For more information on donating blood you can visit the Red Cross website