Upcoming Blood Drives On Cleveland's East Side

CLEVELAND, OH — Less than 10 percent of the American population donates blood, the Red Cross says. Donated blood goes to a variety of patients, including those battling cancer, those undergoing orthopedic surgeries, those receiving organ transplants, and those being treated for inherited blood disorders. An increase in donations can help save lives.

Weirdly, blood donation spikes following a natural disaster. In times of relative tranquility, blood donations dip, leading organizations like the American Red Cross to try and scramble together more blood drives, according to America's Blood Centers.

If you're able, here are a bevy of upcoming blood drives on the east side of Greater Cleveland.

• Our Lady of the Lake Church, 3636 Euclid Ave., Euclid - June 18 from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
• St. Mary Magdalene Church, 32114 Vine St., Willowick - June 18 from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
• Cleveland Clinic Administrative Campus, 25875 Science Park Drive, Beachwood - June 19 from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
• Euclid Public Library, 631 E. 22nd St, Euclid - June 19 from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.
• Hillcrest Hospital, 6780 Mayfield Rd, Mayfield Heights - June 20 from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.
• Wickliffe Community Center, 900 Worden Rd., Wickliffe - June 21 from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
• Ahuja Medical Center, 3999 Richmond Rd. - June 23 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Find more blood drives in the area by clicking here.

Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), 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.

“Every day, we have thousands of lives to help save, but blood and platelet donations often do not keep pace with hospital demand during the summer months,” Nick Gehrig, communications director, Red Cross Blood Services told Patch's Autumn Johnson. “In less time than it can take to go out to eat, you can make a lifesaving difference for cancer patients, accident victims and others in need.”

Whether new to donating blood or a lifelong donor, the Red Cross offers helpful tips for an enjoyable donation experience:

• As much as possible, eat iron-rich foods leading up to your donation.
• Hydrate – drink an extra 16 oz. of liquid before and after the donation.
• Have a healthy meal before the donation.
• Wear comfortable clothing with sleeves that can be raised above the elbow.
• Complete a RapidPass on the day of donation, prior to arriving, to save time.

Remember to bring a picture ID, blood donor card or two other forms of identification.

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