Press Releases
Durham Regional Hospital Hosts American Red Cross Blood Drives
May 11, 2010Durham, NC- Durham Regional Hospital has more than 16,000 admissions and 17,000 surgeries a year, during which some of our patients receive blood transfusions. To help support the needs of our region, Durham Regional Hospital hosts six American Red Cross blood drives a year.
Recently, the hospital has experienced a decline in donors, and has worked to implement several changes to help to improve participation. The hospital now schedules blood drives during afternoon hours, and has found that participation increased slightly with this change. According to Hilda Southerland with the Durham Regional department of Patient Advocacy, who coordinates the drives, “The hours of 2 to 6 p.m. seem to be a more convenient time for people who work in the hospital or at nearby businesses.”
Margie Muir, RN, Nursing Program manager, donates blood at almost every blood drive held at Durham Regional. “I am very fortunate to have good health; so many people don't,” says Muir. “When it's time to give, I always remember siblings I have lost to cancer or an automobile accident - all needed blood transfusions from strangers who took the time to give a gift. I think giving is such an easy thing to do and it is so convenient to give at Durham Regional.”
According to the American Red Cross, one donation can help save the lives of up to three people. You can help at the next blood drive, scheduled for Wednesday, June 16 from 2 to 6 p.m. at Durham Regional Hospital. To register for an appointment, call (919) 470-6524. Walk-ins are also welcome.
