Williamson County Chamber: Blood Assurance Returning To Nashville Zoo At Grassmere This Week

Press release from Williamson County Chamber:

August 4, 2021

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – After successful blood drives at the Nashville Zoo last month, Blood Assurance is bringing one of its bloodmobiles back to the popular Davidson County attraction later this week.

Blood drives will take place Friday and Saturday, Aug. 6-7 at 3777 Nolensville Pike from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. The bloodmobile will be parked adjacent to the zoo’s main entrance.

Last month, more than 70 visitors donated lifesaving blood during the two-day event at the Zoo.

“The donation events we’ve had with Blood Assurance have been very successful this year and we anticipate the one coming up will be the same,” according to Jim Bartoo, the marketing and public relations director with the Nashville Zoo at Grassmere. “If you’re thinking about a Zoo visit in the near future, this is a great opportunity to donate much needed blood to our community.”

Each day of the blood drive, donors will receive a complimentary admission ticket to the Zoo, which is home to nearly 3,000 animals representing more than 350 species. Donors will also receive an insulated tote bag and be entered into a drawing to win a Polaris Side-by-Side (SxS).

“As summer draws to a close, it is so important for Blood Assurance to collect as much blood as we can,” said Dr. Ted Kieffer, the regional medical director for Blood Assurance in Middle Tennessee. “Blood supply is still at a national low, the lowest I’ve ever seen professionally. We ask that you take advantage of the opportunity to give and get access to a fantastic family attraction.”

Blood donors wishing to give on Friday are encouraged to schedule an appointment online at bloodassurance.org/zoo0806. For those wishing to donate Saturday, donors can visit bloodassurance.org/zoo0807. Donors can also schedule an appointment by calling 800-962-0628, or texting BAGIVE to 999777. Walk-ins will be accepted.

To be eligible to donate blood, you must be at least 17 years old (16 years old with parental consent), weigh 110 pounds or more and be in good health. Donors are asked to drink plenty of fluids — avoiding caffeine — and eat a meal that is rich in iron prior to donating.

This press release was produced by Williamson County Chamber. The views expressed here are the author’s own.