February 21, 2006 > Hayward community blood drive

On Valentine's Day, the American Red Cross and the community of Hayward held their regular bi-monthly blood drive and reached 180 percent of the goal to collect 36 pints of blood. 74 potential donors turned out to achieve that goal.

Each pint of blood is used to save up to three lives, so the Hayward blood drive's 65 pints will help 195 people in Northern California to survive physical traumas and fight potentially fatal diseases. Donated blood saves the lives of premature babies, children with sickle cell anemia, accident and burn victims, people stricken with cancer and patients receiving organ transplants.

Red Cross spokeswoman Sara O'Brien said, "We hold this blood drive every two months and local heroes step up to meet the needs of area patients every time. On this Valentine's Day, they were especially generous." To donate blood you must be at least 17 years old, weigh a minimum of 110 lbs. and be in good health.

The next Hayward community blood drive in will be on Tuesday, April 11. For more information call 1-800-448-3543 or go to www.beadonor.com. Walk-ins are welcome as space is available.

Blood Drive
Tuesday April 11
2:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
21250 Hesperian Blvd., Hayward
(510) 594-5204