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A LITTLE STICK SAVES LIVES Tyler, TX – (August 30, 2007) – Carter BloodCare’s Stewart Center, the community blood center, is calling all arms this Labor Day to save lives in East Texas. Businesses all over town are placing signs out in their entrances as they partner with Carter BloodCare’s Stewart Center to motivate donors to visit the Tyler Neighborhood Donor Center during the month of September. The week surrounding Labor Day is a time when the blood supply falls below preferred levels due to the long holiday weekend and higher usage of blood. Everyone who comes to the Carter BloodCare Stewart Center in Tyler to give blood from August 30 until September 8 will receive an embroidered fleece blanket. The Tyler Donor Center is located at 815 S. Baxter Avenue. To schedule a convenient time to give, donors may call Carter BloodCare’s Stewart Center at 1-800-252-5584. Donors also may schedule appointments on-line by visiting stewartblood.org. Many modern medical treatments rely on transfusions and would be impossible without a reliable blood supply. Every day, someone in our community will need a blood transfusion for an unexpected accident, a much-needed surgery or regular medical treatment. Blood cannot be stockpiled; it is perishable and the supply must be constantly replenished. Red blood cells have a shelf life of 42 days, and platelets only have five. Carter BloodCare’s Stewart blood donors receive a mini-physical that includes screenings for pulse, blood pressure and hemoglobin (iron). Potential donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good general health. Most medications do not effect donor eligibility, even those with well-managed diabetes can be donors. For more information about donor eligibility, call Carter BloodCare’s Stewart Center at 1-800-252-5584, or visit stewartblood.org. Volunteer donors at Carter BloodCare and Carter BloodCare’s Stewart Center provide lifesaving blood for patients at over 300 healthcare facilities in 54 North Central and East Texas counties. Carter BloodCare is accredited by the American Association of Blood Banks, licensed by the Food and Drug Administration and is a member of America’s Blood Centers. JOIN THE CARTER BLOODCARE STEWART CENTER’S Longview / Marshall, TX – (August 30, 2007) – Carter BloodCare’s Stewart Center reminds everyone to think about the odds. One out of every three people will need a blood transfusion some time in their life. The week surrounding Labor Day is a time when the blood supply falls below preferred levels due to the long holiday weekend and higher usage of blood. Every donor who gives blood at a Carter BloodCare Stewart Center blood drive during September and October will receive a T-shirt and will be automatically entered into the What Are The Odds drawing. Weekly winners will receive 25 $1 Texas Lottery Tickets. A grand prize winner will receive 100 $1 Texas Lottery Tickets. Rules apply. More than one million people in East Texas depend on volunteer blood donors. Donated blood is used to help save trauma, surgery and cancer patients, burn victims, and others who need transfusion therapy. Blood is perishable, so donors are needed every day to ensure the blood supply is ready for any crisis. Blood donors at Carter BloodCare’s Stewart Center receive a mini-physical that includes screenings for pulse, blood pressure and hemoglobin (iron). Potential donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be in good general health. Most medications do not effect donor eligibility, even those with well-managed diabetes can be donors. For more information about donor eligibility, call Carter BloodCare’s Stewart Center at 1-800-252-5584, or visit stewartblood.org. Volunteer donors at Carter BloodCare and Carter BloodCare’s Stewart Center provide lifesaving blood for patients at over 300 healthcare facilities in 54 North Central and East Texas counties. Carter BloodCare is accredited by the American Association of Blood Banks, licensed by the Food and Drug Administration and is a member of America’s Blood Centers. CARTER BLOODCARE STEWART CENTER UPCOMING BLOOD DRIVES TYLER, TX -- (August 23, 2007) -- Carter BloodCare’s Stewart Center reminds the community that regular donors are the key to an adequate blood supply. The Stewart Center serves patients in more than 30 hospitals and healthcare facilities in 24 East Texas counties. About 96 percent of the region’s medical facilities depend on the Stewart Center for blood and transfusion services. Donors are welcomed daily at six neighborhood donor centers located in Tyler, Longview, Marshall, Lufkin, Paris and Mt. Pleasant, and at community blood drives throughout East Texas. Local businesses, schools, religious groups and civic organizations can host blood drives as a way to give back to the community, and help support the blood supply. Volunteer blood donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be in good general health. There is no upper age limit for donors, and most medications do not interfere with donor eligibility. Donors are urged to eat a good meal no more than four hours before giving blood. More information about blood drives, donor center locations or hours of operation and can be found at stewartblood.org or by calling 1-800-252-5584. Carter BloodCare’s Stewart Center is a not-for-profit, community-based blood center, accredited by the American Association of Blood Banks, licensed by the Food and Drug Administration and is a member of America’s Blood Centers.
August 16, 2007 FIRST-TIME DONOR CELEBRATES BIRTHDAY BY GIVING BLOOD TYLER, TX--A young person turning 17 would likely have their minds set on a festive celebration, but Joseph Birt had his heart set on saving lives. “Becoming a blood donor is something I’ve wanted to do for a long time,” says Joseph. “Now that I’m 17, I get to help other people by giving blood.” Joseph donated his first pint of blood on his birthday last Tuesday, and says this is the beginning of a lifelong commitment. His parents set a lifesaving example by giving blood regularly at their church blood drives, and by explaining to him that many patients rely on blood transfusions. He learned even more about blood donation through the health and science program at Whitehouse High School when the group toured the Carter BloodCare Stewart Center last year. Joseph will be a senior this year, and plans to donate again at his school’s campus blood drives. This donation will count toward his eligibility for the Stewart Center’s Red Cord Honors program, which recognizes students who give blood at least twice during their senior year. “I’m excited about wearing a red honor cord at graduation,” says Joseph, “but really I’m just proud to finally be a blood donor.” Volunteer blood donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be in good general health. There is no upper age limit for donors, and most medications do not interfere with donor eligibility. Donors are urged to eat a good meal no more than four hours before giving blood. More information about blood drives, donor center locations or hours of operation and can be found at stewartblood.org or by calling 1-800-252-5584. Carter BloodCare and Carter BloodCare’s Stewart Center provide blood to 96 percent of hospitals and healthcare facilities throughout 54 North Central and East Texas counties. Carter BloodCare is accredited by the American Association of Blood Banks, licensed by the Food and Drug Administration and is a member of America’s Blood Centers.
August 10, 2007 CARTER BLOODCARE STEWART CENTER UPCOMING BLOOD DRIVES The Carter BloodCare Stewart Center will host 38 community blood drives in East Texas through August 25. Blood donors who register to give blood at any Stewart Center blood drive through the end of August will receive a free “Premium Grade Donor” T-shirt and will automatically be entered into a drawing. Weekly winners will receive a $25 gas gift card. A grand prize winner, selected at random from all eligible entries received during the contest period, will receive a $250 gas gift card. Volunteer blood donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be in good general health. There is no upper age limit for donors, and most medications do not interfere with donor eligibility. Donors are urged to eat a good meal no more than four hours before giving blood. More information about blood drives, donor center locations or hours of operation and can be found at stewartblood.org or by calling 1-800-252-5584. Carter BloodCare and Carter BloodCare’s Stewart Center provide blood to 96 percent of hospitals and healthcare facilities throughout 54 North Central and East Texas counties. Carter BloodCare is accredited by the American Association of Blood Banks, licensed by the Food and Drug Administration and is a member of America’s Blood Centers.
August 10, 2007 COMMUNITY EVENT ENCOURAGES HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES TO CONTINUE A LIFELONG TRADITION PARIS, TX—Carter BloodCare’s Stewart Center is hosting an all-day lifesaving event. Everyone is invited to participate, but the blood center encourages class of 2007 high school graduates to save lives by giving blood. The High School Marathon event will be Monday, August 13, 2007, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. The blood drive will be held at the Carter BloodCare Stewart Donor Center in Paris at 3715 Lamar Ave. Everyone who registers to give blood at the 11-hour event will receive a pair of free movie tickets. To schedule an appointment, contact the Paris Donor Center at 800-252-5584. “We receive a significant amount of blood donations from high school students every year,” said Laura Little, public relations coordinator at the Carter BloodCare Stewart Center. “This event is a celebration of the lifesaving contributions these young donors have made to their community, and our way of encouraging them to continue their commitment to giving blood after graduating. The movie tickets are a gift of appreciation for their willingness to make such a positive impact on the blood supply.” The Carter BloodCare Stewart Center is the primary provider of blood components for many East Texas healthcare facilities, hospitals, trauma centers, and major cancer centers. Within the blood center’s service area, a patient is transfused every 90 seconds. Carter BloodCare’s Stewart Center must see 200 donors every day in order to meet area patient and hospital needs. Volunteer blood donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be in good general health. There is no upper age limit for donors, and most medications do not interfere with donor eligibility. Donors are urged to eat a good meal no more than four hours before giving blood. More information about blood drives, donor center locations or hours of operation and can be found at stewartblood.org or by calling 1-800-252-5584. Carter BloodCare and Carter BloodCare’s Stewart Center provide blood to 96 percent of hospitals and healthcare facilities throughout 54 North Central and East Texas counties. Carter BloodCare is accredited by the American Association of Blood Banks, licensed by the Food and Drug Administration and is a member of America’s Blood Centers.
August 3, 2007 COMMUNITY EVENT ENCOURAGES HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES TO CONTINUE A LIFELONG TRADITION LONGVIEW / MARSHALL, TX—Carter BloodCare’s Stewart Center is hosting an all-day lifesaving event. Everyone is invited to participate, but the blood center encourages class of 2007 high school graduates to save lives by giving blood. The High School Marathon event will be August 8, 2007, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. The blood drive will be held at the Carter BloodCare Stewart Donor Center in Longview at 504 East Loop 281. Everyone who gives blood at the 11-hour event will receive a T-shirt, and a pair of free movie tickets. To schedule an appointment, contact the Tyler Donor Center at 800-252-5584. “While people are busy taking time off during the summer, patients in East Texas continue to need blood every single day,” said Laura Little, public relations coordinator at the Carter BloodCare Stewart Center. “This is a chance for young donors make a lifesaving contribution to the community before going off to college, and the movie tickets are just a gift in appreciation for their willingness to make such a positive impact on the blood supply.” The Carter BloodCare Stewart Center is the primary provider of blood components for many East Texas healthcare facilities, hospitals, trauma centers, and major cancer centers. Within the blood center’s service area, a patient is transfused every 90 seconds. Carter BloodCare’s Stewart Center must see 200 donors every day in order to meet area patient and hospital needs. Volunteer blood donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be in good general health. There is no upper age limit for donors, and most medications do not interfere with donor eligibility. Donors are urged to eat a good meal no more than four hours before giving blood. More information about blood drives, donor center locations or hours of operation and can be found at stewartblood.org or by calling 1-800-252-5584. Carter BloodCare and Carter BloodCare’s Stewart Center provide blood to 96 percent of hospitals and healthcare facilities throughout 54 North Central and East Texas counties. Carter BloodCare is accredited by the American Association of Blood Banks, licensed by the Food and Drug Administration and is a member of America’s Blood Centers.
August 2, 2007 COMMUNITY EVENT ENCOURAGES HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES TO CONTINUE A LIFELONG TRADITION TYLER, TX—Carter BloodCare’s Stewart Center is hosting an all-day lifesaving event. Everyone is invited to participate, but the blood center encourages class of 2007 high school graduates to save lives by giving blood. The High School Marathon event will be August 6, 2007, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. The blood drive will be held at the Carter BloodCare Stewart Donor Center in Tyler at 815 S. Baxter Ave. Everyone who gives blood at the 11-hour event will receive a T-shirt, and a pair of free movie tickets. To schedule an appointment, contact the Tyler Donor Center at 800-252-5584. “While people are busy taking time off during the summer, patients in East Texas continue to need blood every single day,” said Laura Little, public relations coordinator at the Carter BloodCare Stewart Center. “This is a chance for young donors make a lifesaving contribution to the community before going off to college, and the movie tickets are just a gift in appreciation for their willingness to make such a positive impact on the blood supply.” The Carter BloodCare Stewart Center is the primary provider of blood components for many East Texas healthcare facilities, hospitals, trauma centers, and major cancer centers. Within the blood center’s service area, a patient is transfused every 90 seconds. In order to meet these needs, 200 donors must give blood daily. local blood drives or Neighborhood Donor Centers every day. Volunteer blood donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be in good general health. There is no upper age limit for donors, and most medications do not interfere with donor eligibility. Donors are urged to eat a good meal no more than four hours before giving blood. More information about blood drives, donor center locations or hours of operation and can be found at stewartblood.org or by calling 1-800-252-5584. Carter BloodCare and Carter BloodCare’s Stewart Center provide blood to 96 percent of hospitals and healthcare facilities throughout 54 North Central and East Texas counties. Carter BloodCare is accredited by the American Association of Blood Banks, licensed by the Food and Drug Administration and is a member of America’s Blood Centers.
SAVE LIVES WITH CARTER BLOODCARE’S STEWART CENTER TYLER, TX—(July 26, 2007)When people go on summer vacations, they take their lifesaving blood with them. Before going out of town, celebrate summer time by giving the gift of life. “The Carter BloodCare Stewart Center is proactive about keeping the blood supply strong,” says PR Coordinator Laura Little. “We honor our donors with fun giveaways and also encourage businesses and organizations to host community blood drives during times when donorship is low.” Blood donors who register to give blood at any Stewart Center blood drive during July and August will receive a free “Premium Grade Donor” T-shirt and will automatically be entered into a drawing. Weekly winners will receive a $25 gas gift card. A grand prize winner, selected at random from all eligible entries received during the contest period, will receive a $250 gas gift card. With there being no substitute for blood, the only source is from volunteer blood donors. Many modern medical treatments rely on transfusions and would be impossible without an adequate blood supply. Giving blood often is the best way to ensure the blood supply is ready for any crisis. Volunteer blood donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be in good general health. There is no upper age limit for donors, and most medications do not interfere with donor eligibility. Donors are urged to eat a good meal no more than four hours before giving blood. More information about blood drives, donor center locations or hours of operation and can be found at stewartblood.org or by calling 1-800-252-5584. Carter BloodCare and Carter BloodCare’s Stewart Center provide blood to 96 percent of hospitals and healthcare facilities throughout 54 North Central and East Texas counties. Carter BloodCare is accredited by the American Association of Blood Banks, licensed by the Food and Drug Administration and is a member of America’s Blood Centers.
CARTER BLOODCARE STEWART CENTER BLOOD SUPPLY UPDATE TYLER, TX—(July 23, 2007) Inventory of blood groups O and B at Carter BloodCare’s Stewart Center is well below preferred levels, and donors of these types are strongly encouraged to donate as soon as possible. Last month, blood usage in North Central and East Texas increased 11 percent over the same time period in 2006, straining the blood supply’s ability to keep pace with patient needs. Giving blood regularly ensures that community needs can be met. Carter BloodCare’s Stewart Center also urges businesses and community organizations to host summer blood drives. “Patients’ lives depend on the people who go beyond the call of duty,” says Carter BloodCare Stewart Center Spokeswoman Laura Little. “Being a blood donor is more than giving blood. Blood donors make a significant difference in the lives of others and the welfare of our community.” Volunteer blood donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be in good general health. There is no upper age limit for donors, and most medications do not interfere with donor eligibility. Blood is unique and cannot be manufactured in a laboratory. Blood is also perishable, making constant replenishment vital. More information about blood drives, donor center locations or hours of operation and can be found at stewartblood.org or by calling 1-800-252-5584. Carter BloodCare and Carter BloodCare’s Stewart Center provide blood to 96 percent of hospitals and healthcare facilities throughout 54 North Central and East Texas counties. Carter BloodCare is accredited by the American Association of Blood Banks, licensed by the Food and Drug Administration and is a member of America’s Blood Centers.
JOIN CARTER BLOODCARE’S STEWART CENTER’S TYLER, TX— (July 16, 2007) As the community’s primary blood provider, Carter BloodCare’s Stewart Center knows the key to a strong supply is donors who give blood often, especially during holidays and the summer. The center is being proactive to help encourage donors to stay active, even when busy. Blood donors who register to give blood at any Stewart Center blood drive during July and August will receive a free “Premium Grade Donor” T-shirt and will automatically be entered into a drawing. Weekly winners will receive a $25 gas gift card. A grand prize winner, selected at random from all eligible entries received during the contest period, will receive a $250 gas gift card. “This is our way of showing appreciation to our donors for making time in their busy summer schedules to help save lives by giving blood,” says Laura Little, PR Coordinator. “Blood donors are special people because they help make lifesaving transfusions possible for patients in East Texas.” Volunteer blood donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be in good general health. There is no upper age limit for donors, and most medications do not interfere with donor eligibility. Blood is unique and cannot be manufactured in a laboratory. Blood is also perishable, making constant replenishment vital. More information about blood drives, donor center locations or hours of operation and official contest rules can be found at www.stewartblood.org or by calling 1-800-252-5584. Carter BloodCare and Carter BloodCare’s Stewart Center provide blood to 96 percent of hospitals and healthcare facilities throughout 54 North Central and East Texas counties. Carter BloodCare is accredited by the American Association of Blood Banks, licensed by the Food and Drug Administration and is a member of America’s Blood Centers.
JOIN CARTER BLOODCARE’S STEWART CENTER’S TYLER, TX— (July 11, 2007) As the community’s primary blood provider, Carter BloodCare’s Stewart Center knows the key to a strong supply is donors who give blood often, especially during holidays and the summer. The center is being proactive to help encourage donors to stay active, even when busy. Blood donors who register to give blood at any Stewart Center blood drive during July and August will receive a free “Premium Grade Donor” T-shirt and will automatically be entered into a drawing. Weekly winners will receive a $25 gas gift card. A grand prize winner, selected at random from all eligible entries received during the contest period, will receive a $250 gas gift card. Volunteer blood donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be in good general health. There is no upper age limit for donors, and most medications do not interfere with donor eligibility. Blood is unique and cannot be manufactured in a laboratory. Blood is also perishable, making constant replenishment vital. More information about blood drives, donor center locations or hours of operation and official contest rules can be found at www.stewartblood.org or by calling 1-800-252-5584. Carter BloodCare and Carter BloodCare’s Stewart Center provide blood to 96 percent of hospitals and healthcare facilities throughout 54 North Central and East Texas counties. Carter BloodCare is accredited by the American Association of Blood Banks, licensed by the Food and Drug Administration and is a member of America’s Blood Centers.
TYLER, TX— (July 7, 2007) Carter BloodCare’s Stewart Center is thankful that the community will step up and prepare the blood supply for the July 4th weekend. Whole blood and automated donations made now will help keep the supply at preferred levels during the summer holiday. Blood donors who register to give blood at any Stewart Center blood drive through the end of June will receive a free “Do Something New for a Change” T-shirt and a chance to win a $25 Home Depot gift card. Also, every Thursday through August 30 donors can enjoy a pint of Haagen-Dazs Ice Cream when they present to donate at any one of the Stewart Center’s six locations. More information about blood drives, donor center locations or hours of operation, donor eligibility and official contest rules can be found at www.stewartblood.org or by calling 1-800-252-5584. Volunteer blood donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be in good general health. There is no upper age limit for donors, and most medications do not interfere with donor eligibility. Blood is unique and cannot be manufactured in a laboratory. It must come from volunteer donors and is perishable, making constant replenishment vital. Whole blood donors are eligible to give every eight weeks, while platelet donors can give every-other week up to 24 times in a year. Carter BloodCare’s Stewart Center is a not-for-profit, community-based blood center, accredited by the American Association of Blood Banks, licensed by the Food and Drug Administration and is a member of America’s Blood Centers. June 14, 2007 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACTS: Laura Little, PR/Marketing Coordinator SAVE LIVES AT THESE SPECIAL SUMMER BLOOD DRIVES TYLER, TX— As the community’s primary blood provider, Carter BloodCare’s Stewart Center knows the key to a strong blood supply is donors who give often. Historical summertime slumps in donations have led the Stewart Center to take proactive steps to help ensure that patient needs are reliably met, come rain and shine. The decline in blood donations during the summer is the result of a drop in the number of blood drives held in the community. School summertime break means high schools and colleges cannot host as many campus blood drives; these blood drives account for approximately 20 percent of the Stewart Center’s donations when school is in session. Also, frequent donors tend to be less active because family, holiday and travel plans take priority. This decline, combined with a slight rise in the number of elective surgeries during the summer, can lead to a strained blood supply. The Stewart Center seeks to boost the summer blood supply by making blood donation even more rewarding and engaging for busy East Texas residents. With an array of special events, fun giveaways and extra emphasis placed on hosting community blood drives, the Stewart Center encourages donors to make time to give and to remember the lifesaving benefits of giving. With evening and weekend hours available at six permanent donor centers in Tyler, Longview, Lufkin, Marshall, Mount Pleasant and Paris, more than 100 blood drives hosted monthly, Carter BloodCare’s Stewart Center offers donors an easy and convenient way to make a vital and lifesaving gift. Following are some of the special events taking place this summer. Every Thursday through August 30 at all six locations donors will get to enjoy a pint of Haagen-Dazs Ice Cream when they present to donate. The Tyler center will be open Thursdays from 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Also, all donors who register to give blood at any Stewart Center blood drive through the end of June will receive a free “Do Something New for a Change” T-shirt and will automatically be entered into a drawing. Weekly winners will win a $25 gift certificate to Home Depot. Volunteer blood donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good general health. There is no upper age limit for donors, and most medications do not interfere with donor eligibility. Blood is unique and cannot be manufactured in a laboratory. It must come from volunteer donors and is perishable, making constant replenishment vital. Whole blood donors are eligible to give every eight weeks, while platelet donors can give every-other week up to 24 times in a year. More information about blood drives, donor center locations or hours of operation, donor eligibility and official contest rules can be found at 1-800-252-5584, or www.stewartblood.org. Carter BloodCare’s Stewart Center is a not-for-profit, community-based blood center, accredited by the American Association of Blood Banks, licensed by the Food and Drug Administration and is a member of America’s Blood Centers. June 7, 2007 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACTS: Laura Little, PR/Marketing Coordinator STEWART REGIONAL BLOOD CENTER KICKS OFF ‘PINT FOR PINT’ SUMMER GIVEAWAY Tyler, TX – By donating a pint of blood, donors can help save up to three lives—and get a special treat that beats the summer heat! Stewart Regional Blood Center has once again teamed up with Dreyer’s Grand Ice Cream to bring back Pint for Pint. Every Thursday from June 14 through August 30 donors at all six donor center locations will get to enjoy a pint of Haagen-Dazs Ice Cream. Other promotions and giveaways are being offered to encourage people to help maintain an adequate blood supply during the summer months when donations tend to decline. All donors who register to give blood at any Stewart Regional Blood Center blood drive through the end of June will receive a free Do Something New for a Change T-shirt and will automatically be entered into a drawing. Weekly winners will win a $25 gift certificate to Home Depot. Official rules apply, and more information is available at 1-800-252-5584. Rewards are also available to donors who commit to donating blood three times a year by joining Club Red, Stewart’s donor loyalty program. Items such as umbrellas, baseball jerseys, backpacks and much more can be purchased using points earned and accumulated for multiple donations. For more information, visit www.clubredstore.org. Volunteer blood donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be in good general health. Donors are welcome at any of Stewart’s six convenient area donor center locations in Tyler, Longview, Lufkin, Marshall, Mount Pleasant and Paris. Stewart also hosts on-site blood drives in East Texas communities daily. Donor center directions, hours of operation and information about hosting on-site blood drives are available at 1-800-252-5584 or online at www.stewartblood.org.. Stewart Regional Blood Center is a not-for-profit, community-based blood center, accredited by the American Association of Blood Banks, licensed by the Food and Drug Administration and affiliated with Carter BloodCare. May 31, 2007 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACTS: Laura Little, PR/Marketing Coordinator STEWART REGIONAL BLOOD CENTER’S SUMMER COMMUNITY BLOOD SUPPLY UPDATE Tyler, TX -- Officials at Stewart Regional Blood Center are encouraging community blood donors, especially type O-negative donors, to help boost the summertime donations. During the summer, reserves at blood centers across the country can reach critically low levels. More trauma cases occur during the summer, cancer patients and surgical patients continue to need blood. Fewer community blood drives are held, as high schools are on break. Universities, churches and companies often hesitate to sponsor blood drives during the summer, because so many people are on vacation. All donors who register to give blood at any Stewart Regional Blood Center blood drive through the end of June will receive a free Do Something New for a Change T-shirt and will automatically be entered into a drawing. Weekly winners will win a $25 gift certificate to Home Depot. Official rules apply, and more information is available at 1-800-252-5584. Giving blood is easy and it saves lives. Volunteer blood donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be in good general health. There is no upper age limit for donors, and most medications do not effect donor eligibility. Donors are welcome at any of Stewart’s six convenient area donor center locations in Tyler, Longview, Lufkin, Marshall, Mount Pleasant and Paris. Stewart also hosts on-site blood drives in East Texas communities daily. Donor center directions, hours of operation and information about hosting on-site blood drives are available at 1-800-252-5584 or online at www.stewartblood.org. Stewart Regional Blood Center is a not-for-profit, community-based blood center, accredited by the American Association of Blood Banks, licensed by the Food and Drug Administration and affiliated with Carter BloodCare. May 24, 2007 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACTS: Laura Little, PR/Marketing Coordinator SUPPLY OF NEGATIVE BLOOD TYPES NEEDS BOOST As we near the summer months, the supply of negative blood types dips below preferred levels. Stewart Regional Blood Center especially encourages type O-negative donors to roll up their sleeves. People with O-negative blood are considered “universal donors” because it can be given to patients with any blood type; however, they can only receive O-negative blood. In trauma cases, type O-negative is the first line of defense until a patient’s blood type is determined. Sudden emergencies, like car accidents or shootings, can quickly drain O-negative levels. Sometimes newborn infants require transfusions immediately after birth, and often need type O-negative blood. All donors who register to give blood at any Stewart blood drive in May and June will receive a free Do Something New for a Change T-shirt and will automatically be entered into a drawing. Weekly winners will win a $25 gift certificate to Home Depot. Official rules apply, and more information is available at 1-800-252-5584. Potential donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good general health. There is no upper age limit for donors. Most medications do not effect donor eligibility, even those with well-managed diabetes can be donors. Donors are welcome at any of Stewart’s six convenient area donor center locations in Tyler, Longview, Lufkin, Marshall, Mount Pleasant and Paris. Stewart also hosts on-site blood drives in East Texas communities daily. Donor center directions, hours of operation and information about hosting on-site blood drives are available at 1-800-252-5584 or online at www.stewartblood.org. Stewart Regional Blood Center is a not-for-profit, community-based blood center, accredited by the American Association of Blood Banks, licensed by the Food and Drug Administration and affiliated with Carter BloodCare. May 10, 2007 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACTS: Laura Little, PR/Marketing Coordinator JOIN STEWART REGIONAL BLOOD CENTER’S Stewart Regional Blood Center encourages people to make a difference by doing something new--give the gift of life. All donors who register to give blood at any Stewart mobile blood drive in May and June will receive a free Do Something New for a Change T-shirt and will automatically be entered into a drawing. Weekly winners will win a $25 gift certificate to Home Depot. Official rules apply, and more information is available at 1-800-252-5584. More than one million people in East Texas depend on volunteer blood donors. It takes 200 units of blood every day to supply the needs of patients in East Texas. Donated blood is used to help save trauma, surgery and cancer patients, burn victims, and others who need transfusion therapy. Without blood patients can die. Potential donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good general health. There is no upper age limit for donors. Most medications do not effect donor eligibility, even those with well-managed diabetes can be donors. Donors are welcome at any of Stewart’s six convenient area donor center locations in Tyler, Longview, Lufkin, Marshall, Mount Pleasant and Paris. Stewart also hosts on-site blood drives in East Texas communities daily. Donor center directions, hours of operation and information about hosting on-site blood drives are available at 1-800-252-5584 or online at www.stewartblood.org. Stewart Regional Blood Center is a not-for-profit, community-based blood center, accredited by the American Association of Blood Banks, licensed by the Food and Drug Administration and affiliated with Carter BloodCare. May 4, 2007 CONTACT: Laura Little, PR/Marketing Coordinator HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS TO BE RECOGNIZED BY STEWART’S RED CORD HONORS PROGRAM Stewart Regional Blood Center reminds high school seniors, participating in the Red Cord Honors program, to donate a second time before graduation. The Red Cord Honors program was created to emphasize the value of donating blood and award students who play an active role in promoting that cause. To be eligible, students from participating high schools must donate blood at least twice during their senior year. Students who cannot donate because of age, weight, or medical restrictions may be eligible by serving as volunteers in their high school’s blood drives. Eligible seniors will receive red honor cords to wear during their graduation ceremonies, and award certificates acknowledging their contribution to the lifesaving mission of giving blood. Any student who has donated at a Stewart blood drive not sponsored by their school or at a Stewart donor center is urged to inform the Tyler office to ensure they were properly credited. For more information about the Red Cord Honors program, call (903) 535-5452. To give blood, donors must be at least 17 years of age or older, weigh at least 110 pounds and be feeling well. Donors are welcome at any of Stewart’s six convenient area donor center locations in Tyler, Longview, Lufkin, Marshall, Mount Pleasant and Paris. Stewart also hosts on-site blood drives in East Texas communities daily. Donor center directions, hours of operation and information on hosting on-site blood drives are available at 1-800-252-5584 or online at www.stewartblood.org. Stewart Regional Blood Center is a not-for-profit, community-based blood center, accredited by the American Association of Blood Banks, licensed by the Food and Drug Administration and affiliated with Carter BloodCare in Bedford. April 17, 2007 CONTACT: Laura Little (903) 535-5435 cell (903) 574-5437 MEMORIAL BLOOD DRIVETO BE HELD FOR VIRGINIA TECH STUDENTS TYLER, TX --Tyler Junior College is hosting a community blood drive and candle light vigil Tuesday in honor of the Virginia Tech students killed in the deadly campus shooting yesterday. The public is invited and encouraged to participate in this lifesaving event, memorializing the students and faculty of Virginia Tech who were gunned down by a fellow classmate. EVENT: Memorial Blood Drive for Virginia Tech Students “On behalf of everyone at Stewart Regional Blood Center, our hearts go out to the students and families affected by this disturbing tragedy,” said Stewart Regional Blood Center COO John Drury. “We hope that this blood drive will offer a way for the East Texas community to come together to show our support and honor those who lost their lives.” To give blood, donors must be at least 17 years of age or older, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be feeling well. Donors are welcome at any of Stewart’s six convenient area donor center locations in Tyler, Longview, Lufkin, Marshall, Mount Pleasant and Paris. Donor center directions, hours of operation and information on hosting on-site blood drives are available at 1-800-252-5584 or online at www.stewartblood.org. Stewart Regional Blood Center is a not-for-profit, community-based blood centers, accredited by the American Association of Blood Banks, licensed by the Food and Drug Administration and affiliated with America’s Blood Centers. MEDIA ADVISORY CARTER BLOODCARE AND STEWART REGIONAL BLOOD CENTER MERGER COMPLETE EVENT: Carter BloodCare and Stewart Regional Blood Center invite the media to attend a press event following the completion of the merger with Carter BloodCare. DATE: Thursday, April 5, 2007 TIME: 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. LOCATION: Stewart Regional Blood Center WHO: Dr. Merlyn Sayers, president and CEO of Carter BloodCare; Bob Grigsby, COO of Carter BloodCare; John Drury, Executive Director of Stewart Regional Blood Center, and other officials and volunteers from both facilies will be available for interviews and photos during the event. WHY: The merger of the two blood centers is set to be complete Monday, April 2, 2007. The two organizations will begin operations as one organization with combined resources to include 26 permanent donor centers, up to 30 daily blood drives and a fleet of more than 110 donor coaches and distribution vehicles. The organization will employ nearly 1,000 Texans and will provide specialty transfusion services including the Tyler HLA testing laboratory, the second largest database for HLA matched platelets in the U.S., two branches of the National Marrow Donor Program, a rare donor-registry and around-the-clock consultation with on-staff medical doctors. Under the merger agreement, Stewart Regional Blood Center will maintain its name for at least one year. CONTACT: Laura Little (903) 535-5435, PR/Marketing Coordinator March 22, 2007 CONTACT: Laura Little (903) 535-5435 HEALTHY BENEFIT FOR BLOOD DONORS TYLER, TX -- Stewart Regional Blood Center reminds donors about the mini-physical they receive when giving blood. Free blood pressure, pulse, iron and cholesterol checks are provided to each donor. This service is to help donors keep track of their health, an added benefit to giving blood. Donors are welcome at any of Stewart’s six convenient area donor center locations in Tyler, Longview, Lufkin, Marshall, Mount Pleasant and Paris. Stewart also hosts on-site blood drives in East Texas communities daily. Donor center directions, hours of operation and information on hosting on-site blood drives are available at 1-800-252-5584 or online at www.stewartblood.org. Stewart Regional Blood Center is a not-for-profit, community-based blood center, accredited by the American Association of Blood Banks, licensed by the Food and Drug Administration and affiliated with America’s Blood Centers. March 15, 2007 CONTACT: Laura Little (903) 535-5435 DONORS NEEDED REGULARLY TO SAFEGUARD COMMUNITY BLOOD SUPPLY TYLER, TX -- Stewart Regional Blood Center challenges East Texans to step outside their comfort zone by doing something courageous. “It may seem like we’re always asking for donors,” said Laura Little, public relations coordinator for Stewart Regional Blood Center, “but the fact is that there are people in our community who need life-saving blood treatments right now. That’s why having a steady flow of regular donors is so important.” Blood is needed to treat cancer and other diseases, but blood supply levels can also change in an instant when something tragic happens. It is not unlikely in serious trauma cases for a patient to need 50 or more units of blood to survive. Those units have to be available when the need arises. “It’s hard to imagine that units of blood given by 100 donors last week could all be used for one patient this week, but it happens often enough to make preparation an every day issue,” said Little. “Our mission is to ‘provide a safe and adequate blood supply’ to all of East Texas. We provide the ‘safe,’ but it’s up to the community to provide the ‘adequate.’” Donors are welcome at any of Stewart’s six convenient area donor center locations in Tyler, Longview, Lufkin, Marshall, Mount Pleasant and Paris. Stewart also hosts on-site blood drives in East Texas communities daily. Donor center directions, hours of operation and information on hosting on-site blood drives are available at 1-800-252-5584 or online at www.stewartblood.org. Any individual, company, place of worship, community organization, school, hospital or other group may set up a blood drive by calling Stewart Regional Blood Center at 1-800-252-5584. March 9, 2007 CONTACT: Laura Little (903) 535-5435 GIVING BLOOD TWICE A YEAR HELPS PREVENT SHORTAGES TYLER, TX -- Stewart Regional Blood Center urges everyone who has given blood at least once to donate a second time. If every blood donor gave at least two times a year, there would never be a blood shortage. According to recent statistics, nearly one in four patients admitted to a hospital will need a blood transfusion to support their medical therapy. Blood is used primarily in cases of severe trauma including accidents and disasters, organ transplants, marrow transplants, cancer therapy, surgical blood loss, sickle cell disease and other anemia’s. Over 4 million people in America receive blood transfusions annually. For about 2 million patients, the need for blood is urgent and lifesaving. Donors are welcome at any of Stewart’s six convenient area donor center locations in Tyler, Longview, Lufkin, Marshall, Mount Pleasant and Paris. Stewart also hosts on-site blood drives in East Texas communities daily. Donor center directions, hours of operation and information on hosting on-site blood drives are available at 1-800-252-5584 or online at www.stewartblood.org. Any individual, company, place of worship, community organization, school, hospital or other group may set up a blood drive by calling Stewart Regional Blood Center at 1-800-252-5584. March 2, 2007 CONTACT: Laura Little (903) 535-5435 AWARENESS IS HALF THE BATTLE IN SAVING LIVES TYLER, TX -- Stewart Regional Blood Center reminds East Texans that everyday people can do an extraordinary thing by donating the life saving gift of blood. According to statistics from America’s Blood Centers, a national network of community based blood banks, about three gallons of blood supports the entire nation’s blood needs for one minute. Without life saving blood transfusions, 4.5 million Americans would die each year. One out of every 10 people entering a hospital needs blood, and to those patients an adequate blood supply is crucial. If all blood donors gave blood two to four times a year, it would help prevent blood shortages we often face at different times of the year. Blood donors are needed now more than ever. As our population ages, our older dependable donors are not able to donate and many are becoming recipients of blood products. Advances in medical technology have also increased the demand for blood products. Volunteer blood donations help patients being treated for cancer, burns, cardiac problems, accidents, transplants, and sickle cell anemia. The only way to supply blood to the patients who depend on it is through volunteer donors. Individuals who have considered donating, or individuals who dislike needles need to focus on the end result. Up to three lives will be saved with their one blood donation. To give blood, donors must be at least 17 years of age or older, weigh at least 110 pounds and be feeling well. February 22, 2007 CONTACT: Laura Little (903) 535-5435 FLU SEASON CONTRIBUTES TO LOW DONOR PARTICIPATION TYLER/LONGVIEW/MARSHALL/PARIS/MT. PLEASANT, TX--- Officials at Stewart Regional Blood Center are concerned as the supply of several blood types dips closer to inadequate levels. Increased appointment cancellations and declining participation at blood drives indicate the flu season is affecting donor eligibility. With many cancellations and deferrals being attributed to donors not feeling well enough to give, Stewart officials are concerned about the blood supply in the coming months. Flu season typically peaks January through March with the highest rate of employee absences from infection during January and February. Texas is already among the states listed with widespread flu activity, according to the Centers for Disease Control. (www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/fluactivity.htm) “The lives of sick and injured people in East Texas depend on blood treatments and transfusions,” said Stewart Regional Blood Center Vice-President and COO, John Drury. “No patient should have to be concerned that the blood they need might not be available. We urge those who are feeling well and healthy to step up and give to help prevent deficient levels.” To give blood, donors must be at least 17 years of age or older, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be feeling well. Donors are welcome at any of Stewart’s six convenient area donor center locations in Tyler, Longview, Lufkin, Marshall, Mount Pleasant and Paris. Stewart also hosts on-site blood drives in East Texas communities daily. Donor center directions, hours of operation and information on hosting on-site blood drives are available at 1-800-252-5584 or online at www.stewartblood.org. Stewart Regional Blood Center is a not-for-profit, community-based blood center, accredited by the American Association of Blood Banks, licensed by the Food and Drug Administration and affiliated with America’s Blood Centers.
February 15, 2007 CONTACT: Laura Little (903) 535-5435 BLOOD CENTER PRESIDENT RETIRES AFTER 18 YEARS TYLER, TX --- Stewart Regional Blood Center President Bill Grimes announced his retirement after a 40-year professional career in blood banking and laboratory medicine. Mr. Grimes joined Stewart Regional Blood Center in 1988 when he was named president and CEO. With him he brought nearly three decades of experience working in administrative management positions with hospitals, international medical laboratory corporations, and blood centers. A significant part of Mr. Grimes’ professional life has been his long history of involvement with organizations representing the industry of blood banking and medical technology. He has served as president of the American Society for Medical Technology, the South Central Association of Blood Banks, and the Texas Society for Medical Technology. Mr. Grimes has also served on the board of America’s Blood Centers. During the last 18 years, Mr. Grimes has participated in many Tyler civic organizations, and has served on the boards of the American Cancer Society-Smith County, the Texas Society to Prevent Blindness, United Way of Smith County and as chairman of the board of Drug Free Youth in Texas. Mr. Grimes was also chairman of the health services committee of the Tyler Chamber of Commerce. Stewart Regional Blood Center is a not-for-profit, community-based blood center, accredited by the American Association of Blood Banks, licensed by the Food and Drug Administration and affiliated with America’s Blood Centers.
February 9, 2007 CONTACT: Laura Little (903) 535-5435 BLOOD CENTER URGES EAST TEXAS STUDENTS TO TYLER, TX --- The application deadline for Stewart Regional Blood Center’s 2006-2007 scholarship program is Wednesday, February 14, 2007. Stewart’s Scholars is a scholarship program recognizing area students who demonstrate leadership and commitment to community service by participating in Stewart’s high school blood drive program. Stewart Regional Blood Center started the program in 2005-2006, and has awarded five scholarships to East Texas high school seniors. “Blood donors are needed every day to ensure that patient needs are met in our area hospitals,” said Kim Carter, director of development at Stewart Regional Blood Center. “High school blood drives provided 20 percent, or roughly 6,000 units, of Stewart’s blood supply last year alone, which demonstrates just how vital these drives are to our East Texas healthcare community. Stewart’s Scholars is a program that allows us to honor the spirit of leadership and altruism of young people who take a significant role in promoting blood donation and making these drives successful.” Each year through Stewart’s Scholars, scholarships are awarded to graduating seniors who have played an active roll in their campus blood drives by helping coordinate and promote drives, educate fellow students of the importance of giving, and encouraging students, faculty, staff and community members to participate. Previous winners include: Matthew Fisher of Big Sandy High School, Allison Smith of Clarksville High School, Jessica Potter of Ore City High School, Megan Roe of Palestine High School, and Kelley Sandidge of Pine Tree High School. To apply, students must complete an application and two-page essay on motivating students to continue giving after leaving school. From all eligible applicants, five East Texas seniors will be selected to receive a $1,000 scholarship toward post-secondary education. An additional $500 will be given to their school for graduation activities. The Stewart’s Scholars program is open to graduating seniors from high schools registered in Stewart’s blood drive program and hosting a minimum of two blood drives within a calendar year. Applications are available in the office of participating schools or online at www.stewartblood.org. More information on student applications or school registration for the program is available at (903) 535-5452. To give blood, donors must be at least 17 years of age or older, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be feeling well. Donors are welcome at any of Stewart’s six convenient area donor center locations in Tyler, Longview, Lufkin, Marshall, Mount Pleasant and Paris. Stewart also hosts on-site blood drives in East Texas communities daily. Donor center directions, hours of operation and information on hosting on-site blood drives are available at 1-800-252-5584 or online at www.stewartblood.org. Stewart Regional Blood Center is a not-for-profit, community-based blood center, accredited by the American Association of Blood Banks, licensed by the Food and Drug Administration and affiliated with America’s Blood Centers. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Laura Little (903) 535-5435 EAST TEXAS BLOOD DONOR CELEBRATES 100TH DONATION TYLER, TX — February 2, 2007 – For the 100th time, Tyler resident Keith Hammonds shared the gift of life at Stewart Regional Blood Center on Wednesday, February 1, 2007. This dedicated blood donor has been saving lives at Stewart for more than 20 years as a tribute to his father, also a regular blood donor, who sadly passed away when Keith was in his teens. “My father never said much about it, but led by example. Giving blood was just something he did and he always brought me along,” says Keith. “When I give, it’s a way to honor his sense of community spirit.” "We are so proud of Keith, he is truly a role model,“ says Stewart COO John Drury. “Such dedication is rare, but is so vital to the community blood program. Through his donations, Keith is responsible for saving lives by making literally hundreds of blood transfusions possible for patients in East Texas hosptials.” Keith gives regularly at the donor room at the Tyler office of Stewart Regional Blood Center. He prefers to give using a special automated donation process called apheresis (pronounced AYE-fur-ee-sis). Based on blood type, time available and giving frequency, donors can use automated donations as a simple and safe way to maximize their precious contribution to the community blood supply. The automated donation process uses a specialized euipment and a single-use sterile kit to separate specific components during the donation. Human blood is made up of three main components -- red cells, platelets and plasma – and each has a vital role in patient healthcare. Red cells are used for oxygen transport throughout the body and are commonly needed for surgeries and traumas. Plasma makes up the majority of the blood’s volume and has many uses for patients with burns or severe blood loss. Platelets are protiens essential for clotting and are frequently used by patients recovering from cancer or leukemia. Blood type compatibility of components is critical for patient care. For example, type O red cells can be given to patients of any blood type, but type O plasma can only be transfused to patients of the same type. To maximize each lifesaving donation, donors of blood types O and B are encouraged to give red cell donations. Donors of groups A and AB are encouraged to ask about plasma and platelet donations. “I’ve been giving apheresis donations as long as I can remember,” says Keith. “It’s been around a long time, it’s painless.” And, after 100 donations, he should know. Inspired by his father’s frequent blood donation, Keith says giving has become somewhat of a family tradition. Stewart Regional Blood Center salutes Keith and hopes others will join his daughter to be inspired by his giving spirit. To give blood, donors must be at least 17 years of age or older, weigh at least 110 pounds and be feeling well. The Tyler donor center is located at 815 South Baxter Avenue, after the second stop sign from TJC. The donor center is open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 8:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m., Thursday 8:30 a.m.-8 p.m., and Saturday 9 a.m.-2 p.m. More information about automated donations is available at Stewart Regional Blood Center 1-800-252-5584 or at www.stewartblood.org (under Donor Guidelines and Types of Donations, Apheresis.) Stewart Regional Blood Center is a not-for-profit, community-based blood center, accredited by the American Association of Blood Banks, licensed by the Food and Drug Administration and affiliated with America’s Blood Centers. To set up a blood drive or request an educational speaker for your place of business call Ken Mitchell at (903) 535-5457.
COMMUNITY BLOOD CENTERS UNITE TO SERVE PATIENTS IN NORTH CENTRAL AND EAST TEXAS. Carter BloodCare and Stewart Regional Blood Center agree to merge. DALLAS/ FORT WORTH/ WACO/TYLER, TX — February 1, 2007 – Earlier this week, Dallas / Fort Worth-based Carter BloodCare and Tyler-based Stewart Regional Blood Center announced that the two organizations will merge later this spring. Both centers have deep community roots, dating back to the 1950’s, and together provide more than 330,000 units of lifesaving blood annually for patients in nearly 300 hospitals in 56 North Central and East Texas counties. “By joining forces, these two Texas institutions will combine more than 160 years of blood-banking expertise to help meet growing healthcare demands in our region,” says Carter BloodCare president and CEO, Dr. Merlyn Sayers. “Together, we will continue to build on a long-standing tradition of serving patients by making transfusions possible in our communities.” The decision to merge was made following a rigorous review and unanimous vote by the Boards of Directors of both centers. An interim management agreement is now in effect until the merger on or before April 1, 2007. Jointly, Carter BloodCare and Stewart will work to consolidate business operations, maximize blood donation and promote high standards for excellence in community blood banking. Once fully merged, Carter BloodCare and Stewart will be able to welcome donors at 26 permanent donor centers, host up to 30 daily blood drives, maintain a fleet of more than 110 donor coaches and distribution vehicles, and employ nearly 1,000 Texas residents. The organization will also provide unique specialty transfusion services including the Tyler HLA testing laboratory, the second-largest database for HLA matched platelets in the US , two branches of the National Marrow Donor Program, a rare donor registry and around-the-clock consultation with on-staff medical directors. “While this merger increases the services we can provide, dedicated blood donors are at the very heart of our community blood program,” says Stewart Regional Blood Center COO, John Drury. “We encourage them to continue sharing the gift of life at our donor centers and blood drives.” Carter BloodCare and Stewart Regional Blood Center are not-for-profit, community-based blood centers, accredited by the American Association of Blood Banks, licensed by the Food and Drug Administration and affiliated with America’s Blood Centers. News Release January 26, 2007 Contact: Laura Little Type O Blood Needed The blood supply, recently upset by winter weather and holiday shortages, is slowly getting closer to adequate levels, but a critical need for type O blood remains a threat to unexpected traumas. The response from the community has been a testament to the kind of generosity found in East Texas. We care about our neighbors, and our neighbors care about us. When it comes to saving lives, that’s what it’s all about. We’re thankful for our repeat donors, and also for the many first-timers who came to give after hearing how badly we needed them. Still many units of blood are needed to close the gap, but people with type O blood are especially urged to donate. Type O-negative can be transfused to people of all blood types, but O-negative people can only receive O-negative blood. Type O-positive can be given to those with positive blood types. In trauma cases, type O-negative is the first line of defense until a patient’s blood type is determined. Sudden emergencies, like car accidents or shootings, can quickly drain O-negative levels. Sometimes newborn infants require transfusions immediately after birth, and often need type O-negative blood. To set up a blood drive or request an educational speaker for your place of business call Ken Mitchell at (903) 535-5457.
News Release January 18, 2007 Contact: Laura Little Winter Storms Impact Blood Supply Winter storms and icy road conditions caused the cancellation of all area blood drives and the closing of five donor centers Wednesday, leaving Stewart Regional Blood Center in Tyler the only place where people could give blood. Freezing rain stretched across East Texas and forced many potential donors to stay home, while causing havoc for people who had to get behind the wheel. Less people on the road, means less donors. Hazardous traveling conditions mean more accidents. The constraints on improving the blood supply are getting more critical by the day. An EMERGENCY APPEAL for blood donors was issued two weeks ago when the supply of all blood types fell into the critical category. Blood levels improved only slightly, but the added damper of the bad weather has pushed levels down even farther. All types are seriously needed, especially O-positive, O-negative and A-positive. The widespread implications of the holidays and winter weather have drained blood supplies across the nation, eliminating the ability to import units from other centers. Treatments and surgeries may have to be put on hold, and that could put patients at risk. We’ve seen enough tragedies and natural disasters just in the last several years to know that they happen when we least expect it, but they don’t have to happen when we’re least prepared. Stewart Regional Blood Center has been the primary provider of life-saving blood products in East Texas for over 55 years, serving 24 counties including 30 facilities. The Tyler donor center is located at 815 South Baxter Avenue after the second stop sign from TJC. Monday and Friday the Tyler donor center is open from 8:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m., and Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 8:30 a.m.-8 p.m., and Saturdays 9 a.m.-1 p.m. For more information about blood donation or the blood center visit www.stewartblood.org. To set up a blood drive or request an educational speaker for your place of business call Ken Mitchell at (903) 535-5457.
News Release January 12, 2007 Contact: Laura Little Donors Needed to Save Lives The blood supply remains at critical levels, and Stewart Regional Blood Center urges people to donate if they have not yet responded to the Emergency Appeal issued last week. Two of the most common reasons given by people who don’t give blood are “I never thought about it” and “I’m scared of needles.” Those responses might be different if a loved one suddenly needed blood transfusions to survive. Approximately 40,000 units of blood are used each day in the United States, and more than 150 units a day in East Texas. One out of every 10 people admitted into a hospital needs blood. It is common for a single trauma victim to require 50 units of blood or more. If blood is not immediately available for life-saving procedures, a patient may not survive. Regular donors are always needed to ensure that the live of sick and injured people can be saved. The Tyler donor center is located at 815 South Baxter Avenue after the second stop sign from TJC. Monday and Friday the Tyler donor center is open from 8:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m., and Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 8:30 a.m.-8 p.m., and Saturdays 9 a.m.-1 p.m. For more information about blood donation or the blood center visit www.stewartblood.org. To set up a blood drive or request an educational speaker for your place of business call Ken Mitchell at (903) 535-5457. News Release January 5, 2007 Contact: Laura Little Officials at Stewart Regional Blood Center are issuing an EMERGENCY APPEAL for blood donors, as the blood supply continues dropping to dangerous levels. All eight blood types have fallen into the critical category, and six blood types have five or less units on the shelf. This represents a crisis situation for patients in East Texas. Holiday shortages are experienced by blood centers nationwide, but this is the worst Stewart has faced in five years. Importing blood from other centers dealing with the same situation will be difficult. If patients have to wait too long to receive life-saving transfusions or treatments, lives could be lost. The Tyler donor center is located at 815 South Baxter Avenue at the second stop sign after TJC. Monday and Friday the Tyler donor center is open from 8:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m., and Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 8:30 a.m.-8 p.m., and Saturdays 9 a.m.-1 p.m. For more information about blood donation or the blood center visit www.stewartblood.org or call (903) 535-5400. To set up a blood drive or request an educational speaker for your place of business call Ken Mitchell at (903) 535-5457.
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