MDOT blood drive in Ishpeming

The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is encouraging state employees and other members of the public to give the gift of life by donating blood at the Ishpeming Transportation Service Center (TSC) on Aug. 29.

The U.P. Regional Blood Center will have its self-contained mobile collections vehicle at the facility from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. The TSC is located at 100 S. Westwood Drive in Ishpeming.

“We need everyone who is able to give blood to make sure enough is available when it is needed, for our families and friends,” said Harmony Michaud, the MDOT employee who coordinated the event. “What a tremendous gift to give others in our community.”

“Donating blood is simple,” said Sallie Coron, coordinator of blood collections for the U.P. Regional Blood Center. “It takes approximately 10 minutes to donate 1 pint to save three lives.”

Some guidelines for blood donors include:

– It should be at least eight weeks since your last donation.

– You must be at least 17 years of age.

– You must weigh at least 110 pounds.

– You should bring identification.

– You should eat a good meal and drink plenty of fluids within two hours prior to donation.

– If possible, call the U.P. Regional Blood Center (906-225-7132) or the Ishpeming TSC (906-485-4270) ahead of time to sign up.

Refreshments will be provided. More information about the U.P. Regional Blood Center is available at ww4.mgh.org/Blood.