Full Notification

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Blood Assurance Hosts Fourth Annual Battle of the Badges Blood Drive

 On Friday, July 27th, 2018, members of the Abingdon Police Department, Abingdon Fire Department, Washington County, VA Sheriff’s Office, and Washington County Life Saving Crew are joining forces for the Fourth Annual Battle of the Badges Blood Drive. A trophy will be awarded to the department with the most blood donors.  The drive will be held in the parking lot of the Abingdon Police Department at 425 West Main Street, Abingdon, from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

“Every two seconds someone in the United States is in need of blood and sadly, only 10 percent of those eligible donate, said Fire Chief John McCormick.” “Where else in 15 minutes can you save three lives?  Please take the time and tell them the Abingdon Fire Department sent you.  Everyone is a winner with a blood donation.”

Blood Assurance relies on all blood types, but especially those with type O-negative blood, as it is the universal blood type. O-negative blood is given to patients in an emergency situation when their own blood type is unknown.

Blood donors must be at least 17 years old (16 years old with parental consent), weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health. The process usually takes about 30 minutes and includes a complimentary snack and a special “Battle of the Badges” t-shirt. Donors should eat a healthy meal and drink plenty of fluids -avoiding caffeine- prior to giving blood.   

The blood drive is open to the public and everyone is encouraged to come donate in the name of your favorite public service agency. To help minimize your wait time, we encourage you to sign up at bloodassurance.org/bob2018 for a time slot.