Maui December Donors Get Sweet Treat

By Wendy Osher

Blood Bank Hawaii logo.

Maui donors will receive a special “Pint-for-a-Pint” ice cream coupon for donating blood during the December Blood Bank drive on the Valley Isle.

“Keeping the blood supply at a safe level during holidays is quite challenging because many people go on vacation or are busy with other plans,” said Blood Bank of Hawaii Vice President Wendy Abe. “We hope the ‘Pint-for-a-Pint’ promotion will heighten awareness of the need for blood among non-donors and inspire people to give the gift of life this holiday season.”

The coupons are redeemable for a pint of ice cream at participating Baskin-Robbins stores.

The December blood drive on Maui runs from December 26 to the 29 at the Maui Economic Opportunity, Classrooms 1 and 2 at the following times:

• December 26: 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
• December 27: 7 a.m. – 2:45 p.m.
• December 28: 9:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
• December 29: 7 a.m. – 2:15 p.m.

Officials from the Blood Bank say, each day in Hawaii, hundreds of patients count on volunteer blood donors for their survival. Typical uses for donated blood include surgical procedures; treatment of accident victims and chemotherapy patients; and mothers and newborns during delivery.

Because each donation is separated into three different components — red blood cells, platelets and plasma — officials with the Blood Bank say, a single donation can help save the lives of up to three people.

The donation process usually takes about an hour. A confidential interview and a mini-physical are administered, but the actual collection of blood takes five to eight minutes.

In Hawaii, only 2% of the eligible population donates blood, and more donors are always needed.

The requirements to be a blood donor include: be in good health; be 18 years of age or older (17 with signed Blood Bank parent/legal guardian consent form); weigh 110 pounds or more; and bring a valid photo ID with date of birth.

To make an appointment or for more information, visit www.BBH.org or call Blood Bank of Hawaii toll-free at 1-800-372-9966.