Seasonal flu, flu shots, H1N1 flu, Tamiflu…it seems you can’t open a newspaper or turn on the news without hearing those words these days. The world is preparing to guard against the flu, seasonal and swine, and the local blood center is doing the same.

As we prepare for the fall and winter flu season, we encourage healthy people to keep their donation appointments. People who aren’t feeling well should plan to donate next time. As in any flu season, keeping the blood supply humming is vital in our community.

Anyone interested in donating blood may visit our appointment scheduling site to make an appointment. Donors receive a free cholesterol test.

Volunteer blood donors must be at least 16 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health. Additional height/weight requirements apply to donors 22 and younger. All blood donors receive a free cholesterol test and are automatically recognized in the Hero in Me Rewards program. The program uses Gold, Silver and Bronze recognition levels to offer benefits to donors who give regularly during a calendar year.