PORTLAND, Ore. (Dec. 23, 2019) — In a galaxy not so far, far away, heroes are being called upon to battle for good. The American Red Cross is encouraging eligible donors to help save lives at the 10th annual Galaxy Blood Drive Saturday, Dec. 28, from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Red Cross Portland Blood Donation Center, 3131 N. Vancouver Ave.
Jedi need lightsabers, but patients need lifesavers and the Galaxy Blood Drive provides a fun and unique way for donors to support the blood supply. Donors will have opportunities to meet and take photos with members of Star Wars™ costuming organizations, Cloud City Garrison and Kashyyyk Base.
This blood drive comes as the Red Cross faces an urgent need for all blood types, especially types O negative and positive. Donations often decline during the winter holidays when many groups postpone blood drives while regular donors are busy with holiday activities and travel. Blood and platelet donors are urged to give now to help avoid delays in lifesaving medical care for patients this winter
This year, those coming to donate will receive a Red Cross T-shirt, while supplies last.
To make an appointment to give blood at the Galaxy Blood Drive download the free Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device and use sponsor code Galaxy.
How to donate blood
A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.