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Health & Fitness

Valentine’s Day blood drive at Easter Lutheran

The Eagan community is invited to give the ultimate gift of love this Valentine’s Day – the gift of life – at  the American Red Cross blood drive at Easter Lutheran Church.

For Judy and Steve Rogosheske, Eagan residents and members of Easter Lutheran Church, donating blood is something that they have done together throughout their 28-year marriage. “Some people might not find it the most romantic thing to do on Valentine’s Day, but to us it’s one of the most loving things we could do. We are grateful that we are able to give, and we do so on a regular basis,” said Steve.

Because Judy gave double reds at her last donation appointment, she is not eligible on Valentine’s Day, but she will accompany Steve to his donation appointment. “It’s something we enjoy doing together and what better way to share our love this Valentine’s Day than by sharing a pint of love with someone in need,” said Judy.

Thousands of blood donations are needed every day to treat trauma victims, organ transplant recipients, cancer patients, premature babies and many more.  With just an hour of their time every eight weeks, blood donors can help give patients extra days, months or even years with their loved ones. To a patient in need, time is everything.

Valentine’s Day blood drive:

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Friday, Feb. 14 from 12:30-5:30 p.m. at Easter Lutheran Church By the Lake, 4545 Pilot Knob Road, Eagan, Minn.

Right now, blood products are being distributed to hospitals as quickly as donations are coming in. Eligible donors with all blood types are needed now to help restock our shelves. While thousands of people from across the country have responded to the call for blood donations issued by the Red Cross last month, there continues to be an urgent need for blood donors with type O, especially type O negative. Donors with types A negative and B negative are also urgently needed.

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How to donate blood
Simply call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or visit us on Twitter at @RedCrossBloodNC.

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