2016 Battle of the Badges Blood Drive

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Blood Assurance Hosts Second Annual Battle of the Badges Blood Drive

On Friday, July 29, 2016, members of the Abingdon Police Department, Abingdon Fire Department, Washington County, VA Sheriff’s Office, and Washington County Life Saving Crew are joining forces for the Second Annual Battle of the Badges blood drive. A trophy will be awarded to the department with the most blood donors.  The drive will be held in the parking lot of the Abingdon Police Department at 425 West Main Street, Abingdon, from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

“The Abingdon Police Department is excited to host this event again this year,” said Police Chief Tony Sullivan. “Our hopes are to have over 100 donors, to break our donation record from last year.  The need for blood is constant in our local health care systems, and so is the need for donations. Each day, our local hospitals use blood and blood components to treat patients, in both emergency situations and in normal medical procedures. Transfusions of blood and blood components are an essential part of healthcare treatment. Because each blood donation provides three different blood components, each with its own role in treating patients, your donation can help up to three different people.  There is not greater way to make an impact on your community than to donate a gift that can not only change a life, but save a life. With our goal of 100 donors this year, we have a chance to have a direct impact on the lives of 300 people in our region.  I encourage you to stop by on Friday, July 29^th and help us break the 100 unit mark!”

Blood Assurance relies on all blood types, but especially those with type O-negative blood as it is the universal blood type. O-negative blood is given to patients in an emergency situation when their own blood type is unknown.

Blood donors must be at least 17 years old (16 years old with parental consent), weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health. The process usually takes about 30 minutes and includes a complimentary snack and a special “Battle of the Badges” t-shirt. Donors should eat a healthy meal and drink plenty of fluids -avoiding caffeine- prior to giving blood.  

The blood drive is open to the public and everyone is encouraged to come donate in the name of your favorite public service agency. 

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