The American Red Cross of Northwest Georgia continues to encourage area residents to donate blood in this time of coronavirus.
There is still an urgent need for blood donations at this time, indicates Leigh Barba, Executive Director. All donations continue to be tested for COVID-19 antibodies, which determine whether or not donors have had the virus.
Red Cross antibody testing is not intended to diagnose an illness, known as a diagnostic test.
Barba is thankful for community support of recent blood drives since just one blood donation can save up to three lives. The antibody testing is offered free of charge to donors by the Red Cross; this type of testing can cost upwards of $100 from other organizations, asserts Barba.
Blood drives will take place at State Mutual Stadium on Tuesday, August 11th from 2 pm until 7 pm and at Westminster Presbyterian Church on Wednesday, August 12th from 3 pm until 7 pm, as well as at the Red Cross’ Rome chapter, 112 John Maddox Drive, on Thursday, August 27th from 3 pm until 7 pm. All donors are urged to register in advance for the blood drive of their choice via www.redcrossblood.org.