BLOOD DONORS MONTH

In observance of the nationwide annual ‘’Blood Donor’s Month’’, Mayor James ‘’Bong’’ Gordon, Jr. is urging Olongapeños to join the Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC) drive to promote blood donation.

‘’This year’s ‘Blood Donor’s Month’ will again be celebrated on a national scale to create wider awareness of the need for safe blood transfusion and the importance of blood donation,’’ said Mayor Gordon, noting this year’s theme “Young Donor’s, New Blood for the World”.

In line with the celebration, a motorcade will be held on July 14, 2010, 7:30 in the morning at the Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC)-Olongapo City Chapter office, Old Hospital Road, East Tapinac. The motorcade will be lead by the PNRC Olongapo staff, volunteers and support groups from Olongapo City and Subic Bay Freeport Zone (SBMA).

Meanwhile, a mass blood donation will also be held at the Olongapo City Convention Center (OCCC) on July 16. The following can qualified to donate blood:

o Age: 18 to 59 years old

o Weight: 50 kilos or 110 pounds

o Blood pressure: 110/70-130/90

o Must have a minimum of six hours sleep

Health experts say donating blood gives an array of health benefits. Blood donation is said to remove some of the excess iron in the blood, which can cause free radical formation in the body.

Some studies have also shown that men who donate blood on a regular basis have a lower risk of heart disease. With heart disease being the number one cause of death in males, it is an important factor to donate blood.

For more information and inquiries, blood donors may go to the PNRC-Olongapo City Chapter, Old Hospital Road, East Tapinac, Olongapo City or call telephone number 222-2181.