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Published on July 19, 2023

Blood drives scheduled to help meet need amid usual summer slowdown in donations

Tidelands Health is partnering with the American Red Cross on two blood drives to help meet the need for donations amid the usual decline in donations during the summer.

Hands hold a red heart.The blood drives are scheduled:

  • July 24 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Tidelands Health Pawleys Family YMCA, 12965 Ocean Highway in Pawleys Island. Those donating during this blood drive are eligible to receive a Shark Week T-shirt while supplies last.
  • Aug. 7 from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Waccamaw Medical Park South on the Tidelands Waccamaw Community Hospital campus, 4367 Riverwood Road in Murrells Inlet

Schedule an appointment at redcrossblood.org

During the summer, the need for blood supplies often increases while blood donations drop because of work vacations and breaks from school. In addition, people travel and spend more time outdoors, leading to accidents and medical procedures that require transfusions.

Blood supplies gathered through donations are vital for patients with cancer, chronic diseases, cardiac conditions, those who experience physical trauma and more. A single blood donation has a shelf life of only 42 days, so donations from community members are continuously needed to keep supplies replenished.

Blood donors must be healthy, at least 17 years old and weigh at least 110 pounds. Be sure to bring your driver’s license, donor card or other valid identification. People who are feeling ill should postpone donating blood until they feel healthy and are symptom-free. Appointments will take priority, but walk-ins are welcome.

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Tidelands Health, in collaboration with MUSC Health, is the region’s largest health care provider, serving the Carolinas at four hospitals and more than 70 outpatient locations. More than 2,500 employee, physician and volunteer partners work side by side with our communities to transform the health of our region – promoting wellness, preventing illness, encouraging recovery and restoring health.