Some Tips for Blood Donors as GOLM Nears

With hundreds of first-time donors and nearly 2,000 people expected to donate blood at the Gift-of-Life Marathon, organizers are offering advice to make the experience fun and rewarding – and ensure a smooth process.

“The Gift-of-Life Marathon is a logistical and emotional jigsaw puzzle, but with a little effort, each donor can help ensure the outcome is a beautiful thing,” said Steve Costello, vice president for generation and energy innovation at Green Mountain Power, one of the organizers.

Organizers offered the following advice to potential donors:

• If you can make an appointment, do so.  If you have an appointment and can’t make it, call 800-RED-CROSS to cancel, so the slot can be opened to someone else.
• Bring a photo ID or Red Cross donor card.  No one can donate without them.
• If 16, bring a parent or guardian, or a signed parental consent form available at www.redcrossblood.org.
• Drink lots of water or juice in the 24 hours leading up to your donation, and eat a good breakfast and lunch the day of the drive.
• Maintain a healthy iron level by eating iron-rich foods like red meat, fish, poultry, beans, spinach, raisins or cereal that is iron fortified.
• Relax.  Donating blood is virtually painless, and leaves most donors feeling great about what they have done.
• Bring a friend or loved one! Donating blood together can be a tremendous bonding experience.

Terry Jaye, program manager at Catamount Radio, said appointments are critical, and encouraged anyone eligible to donate to make one, but assured others that walk-ins will be taken at all five locations, including the Paramount Theatre, Elks Club, College of St. Joseph, Holiday Inn and American Legion.

“We have an enormous pool of Red Cross staff and volunteers lined up,” Jaye said.  “We expect a smooth, well-organized process.”

Dave Wolk, president of Castleton College, will be driving a shuttle between the college and various blood donation sites, carrying students, faculty and staff, and local residents.  Anyone in western Rutland County who wants a ride to the blood drive may call 468-1202.

“Castleton College is committed to doing everything possible to make the blood drive a success, and I want to do my part,” Wolk said.  “I would be privileged to be the personal chauffeur for anyone who needs a ride to and from the blood drive any time during the day.”

The Gift-of-Life Marathon, which is Dec. 17 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., is organized by Castleton College, WJJR and Green Mountain Power, with lead support from the Paramount Theatre and Small Dog Electronics.  While supplies last, donors will receive gift bags stuffed with items from dozens of local businesses and organizations.