donations decrease this time of year due to illness and holiday preparations and Medic Regional Blood Center asks that people take the time to give the ‘gift of life’ this holiday season. “Medic is the sole provider of blood and blood products to 28 area hospitals and it is very important for us to maintain our inventory this time of year,” states Christi Fightmaster, Medic public relations.

One donation a year to Medic exempts donors and their IRS dependents from paying blood collection or processing fees at any U.S. hospital. Each donation adds another year’s credit towards your family’s membership. For example, if you give blood twice during the year 2007 then your family will be covered under Medic’s Family Blood Coverage Program until 2009.

Community blood drive are planned for the following dates:
• December 18, Curves, 741 Dolly Parton Parkway, 10am – 6pm, Medic Mobile.
• December 21, Kroger-Seymour, 10721 Chapman Highway, 10am – 6pm, Medic Mobile.
• December 22, Ft. Sanders Sevier Medical Center, 709 Middlecreek Road, 10am – 6pm, Medic Mobile.

All donors must be at least 17 years of age, weigh more than 110 pounds and have positive identification. Donors will receive a free t-shirt and cholesterol evaluation (no fasting required).

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