The San Saba County/Baylor Scott & White Blood Drive will held on Tuesday September 28th... that’s just around the corner! If you are able to donate, please go to BSWBlood.com, click on Schedule An Appointment, find and click on 9-28, find and click on First Baptist Church San Saba, click on Schedule and find and click on the time frame that you want! And, Yes!, you can walk-in; however, we must allow appointments first and you will be worked in as soon as possible.
Have you ever wondered about what all is involved with the donating process? Well, I’m glad that you asked because there are only 5 steps that need to be made.
#1 is the Registration process: we will gather some of your basic information, such as your mailing address, phone number, date of birth and social security number for our records. If you’ve already given blood before and we know you are coming, it’s even easier because the form comes pre-printed with all this information and makes this part go faster! A photo ID, such as your driver’s license, military ID, employee badge or state ID, is required EVERY TIME!
#2 is a Mini Physical: once inside the mobile unit, you will be checked for your blood pressure, temperature, pulse and hematocrit to make sure that you are feeling your best prior to donating. This step is to ensure the safety of both our patients and our blood donors.
#3 is an Interview: during this process, you will be asked a few medical and travel history questions to make sure that the donation process will be safe for you as well as local patients. During this step, it’s important to answer questions honestly and disclose all relevant information to the phlebotomist.
#4 is FINALLY the Donation process: this is actually the shortest stretch of the process, lasting 5-10 minutes. They will begin by cleansing your arm and inserting a new, sterile needle. This is a quick pinch and is over in a few moments. During the donation, you can relax until a pint of blood is collected, at which point the needle will be removed and a bandage placed on your arm.
#5 is Relaxation: after donating, you’ll relax in the refreshment area and enjoy some free snacks and juice or water. You’ll also receive a free monthly giveaway.
Okay, but how do I know if I’m qualified? That’s an excellent question and what will help is this: you MUST have a photo ID (I know that I’ve already said this, but you cannot even start with #1 without this!); you MUST be at least 17-years-old; you MUST weigh no less than 110 pounds; you SHOULD eat a good meal and drink lots of water or juice before donating; you SHOULD avoid any alcoholic and caffeinated beverages for 12 hours before donating; and you SHOULD be feeling well when you offer to donate blood.
Okay, but how about if I think that I might be deferred? Another great question…here are some questions to ask yourself: Where were you born? If you were born in, have lived in, or visited certain countries, you may not be eligible to donate. What medications are you taking? There are certain medications/antibiotics that may cause you to be temporarily deferred. These are questions that will be asked during the interview process and your answers may determine your deferral status.
You will find us on the east side of the First Baptist Church at 208 W. Wallace in San Saba, from 12:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 28th. If you have questions, please contact Marsha Hardy at 325-372-8570.