Holiday Blood Drive Benefits Patients In Need

Many patients in our regional hospitals still need blood, so Bank of Oklahoma and News 9 have partnered with the Oklahoma Blood Institute to host the Holiday Blood Drive.

The Holiday Blood drive will be held on Monday, Dec. 14 from 10am to 6pm at 7403 N. Kelley, between OETA and News 9 buildings. All donors will receive a long-sleeve t-shirt as well as the COVID-19 antibody test. One donor will receive a $2,000 Visa gift card courtesy of Bank of Oklahoma.

Socially distanced blood drives include hand sanitizing stations, screening stations that are spread apart and have extra cleaning protocols, temperatures taken upon arrival and masks require by all donors and staff. Masks will be available if needed. If a donor would like to support the Global Blood Fund, he or she can forgo the t-shirt and OBI will make a contribution of similar value.

Also, anyone who has had a positive COVID test and is 14 days symptom free can donate convalescent plasma. This plasma, rich with COVID-19 antibodies, is being used in hospitals for patients who are experiencing more severe COVID symptoms. The need for convalescent plasma is the highest it has ever been, so we would like to encourage anyone who qualifies to come donate at this drive. This donation works very similar to a regular blood donation, just takes a few minutes longer and a little extra paperwork.