The cause
Originally known as the Travis County Medical Society Blood Bank, We Are Blood works to maintain and protect the blood supply in Central Texas, according to the We Are Blood website.
"A tragic event, even a single-car accident, can have a huge impact on that supply," officials said. "It is the blood we have on our shelves during those tragic times that helps save people’s lives."
The details
Six blood drives are scheduled in October throughout Bastrop County.
The following links allow those interested to see available times, locations and sign up:
- Oct. 3: Giddings
- Oct. 5: Rosansky
- Oct. 6: The Colony in Bastrop
- Oct. 7: Film Alley in Bastrop
- Oct. 9: Elgin Community Center
- Oct. 30: Cedar Creek High School
Upon arrival, potential donors will sign in at the front desk and be asked to read information about the blood donation process. After that, they will complete a survey in a private room regarding their medical and travel history, according to We Are Blood.
The donor will receive a mini-physical, which includes a temperature, blood pressure, pulse, and hematocrit, or red blood cell percentage, check.
A phlebotomist will then lead the donor into the donation room to begin the blood draw.
What's different?
As of late 2023, members of the LGBTQ community can donate; the gender of a donor and their sexual partners will no longer be a consideration for donor eligibility. More information about donation parameters can be found on the We Are Blood website.
Other eligibility criteria include that the donor must:
- Be in good health
- At least 17 years old
- Weigh at least 115 pounds for whole blood donations, or 110 pounds for platelet donations
Those interested are asked to drink plenty of water the night before the donation, and bring photo identification.
Potential donors can reach out with questions by calling 512-206-1108 or emailing [email protected].