Sixteen-year-olds now eligible to donate blood

The American Red Cross is now allowing 16-year-olds to give blood. Previously, donors had to be 17 or older in order to be eligible.
The next local opportunity to give blood to the American Red Cross will be from 1 to 7 p.m. Monday, Sept. 28, at Grace Lutheran Church in Luverne.
A student donor must have a consent form signed by his or her parents or guardians. The Red Cross supports each student’s willingness to give blood and asks that parents offer encouragement too.
To ensure that the students have a positive experience, we recommend the following:
•Get a good night’s sleep before donating.
•Eat well and drink plenty of fluids in the days leading up to the blood donation, especially on the day of the drive.
•Drink at least 16 oz. of caffeine-free fluid (2 cups) three to four hours before the donation and after.
•Be honest and accurate about your weight (donors must weigh at least 110 lbs.)
Since one blood donation can be separated into three components, donors have the potential to save as many as three lives with a single donation.
Please note that the FDA requires that specific questions be asked about donors’ health history. This information helps ensure the safety of the blood donor and the blood recipient.
Parents should be proud of their son’s or daughter’s decision to donate. Don’t forget that the parents or guardian must sign a consent form.
In addition to asking the age of the donor, the form asks:
Do you have any allergies, asthma, cold, flu, sore throat, have cancer or any surgery, had dental procedures to oral surgery, diabetes, heart disease, hepatitis, piercing (ear, body), are you pregnant, vaccinations, what medications you are taking and have you traveled outside of the United States.
Over the past year, blood donated at the Luverne Blood Drive had the opportunity to touch up to 538 or more lives.
The American Red Cross is thankful for all blood donations. These efforts have brought smiles and hope to many in need.
Blood donated at the upcoming drive is more important than ever as it is part of a movement to support 89 more hospitals this year, totaling approximately 2,600 hospitals nationwide.
Double red cell machines are available again for giving double donations. Please consider donating, as the need is great.
Call 1-800-733-2767 with questions.