Christmas is just around the corner, less than a month away. Be sure to top your list with an appointment for a blood donation at the Stanley-Boyd Community Red Cross Blood Drive, Christmas Eve, December 24, 8:30 am to 1:30 pm at the Boyd Legion. This is a most precious, life saving gift to give at this season of giving and the best part is it just costs a little gas money and your time!

Patients depend on you, the healthy blood donor so they can continue to enjoy life and being with their family. You are their hope!

Appointment slots are filling up so be sure to make your appointment soon. You can make one on-line, call Donella Christianson at 715-644-3638, or email at [email protected]

Donors must be at least 17 years or older, weigh at least 110 pounds, be in general good health, and feel well the day of donation. Sixteen-year-olds can also donate, but need to present a signed Red Cross consent form at the time of registration. Consent forms are available from Donella. If you have any medical questions and aren’t sure if you would be eligible to donate, please call the Red Cross medical question number at 1-866-236-3276.

If you feel unwell for any reason, please postpone your donation. Individuals who believe they may be ill with COVID-19 should not present to donate until they are symptom free for 14 days and feeling well and healthy.

All donations are tested for COVID-19 antibodies. Results available within one to two weeks via your donor account on both RedCrossBlood.org and the Blood Donor App.

The Red Cross follows the highest standards of safety and infection control. In accordance with CDC guidelines, all donors are required to wear a face covering or mask. Valve face masks are not permitted. Face shields can be worn in addition to face masks but not as a substitute.

Take time from your busy Christmas activities and donate blood on Christmas Eve. Give the best gift ever, the gift of life!