Eielson to host blood drive Published Jan. 31, 2007 By Staff Sgt. Gloria Wilson 354th Fighter Wing Public Affairs EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska -- Not everyone has the opportunity to save a life, let alone three. Donating an hour of your time and a pint of blood could do just that. The state of Alaska is currently in Code Red Critical, which means they have less than one day's supply of blood needed for numerous life saving procedures. The Blood Bank of Alaska is urging all eligible blood donors to donate and help alleviate this shortage. "We have blood drives at Eielson on the third Tuesday of every month and we usually collect 30 to 40 units of blood, but we are trying to double that amount," said Christi Taylor, Blood Bank of Alaska Fairbanks assistant manager. Eielson's next blood drive is Tuesday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the base theater and appointments are recommended. "Only five percent of eligible blood donors donate blood, yet it is such an important thing to do," said Mrs. Taylor. "There is no substitute for human blood and you may find yourself in need of it. Blood donations may one day save your life or the life of a loved one." Capt. Matthew Glynn, 354th Medical Support Squadron chief of laboratory services, said he finds that a number of people don't donate blood because of anticipation of the process, which is relatively simple. "The entire process typically takes 45 minutes to an hour and is fairly painless," he said. "Most people will only feel a pinch when the needle goes in." Captain Glynn, who is also a blood donor, said he feels donating blood is extremely important and the knowledge that someone, although unknown, has benefited from his blood is an amazing feeling. Blood collected on base is credited to the military, and Eielson has a contract with Blood Bank of Alaska stating that the blood will be used for military personnel first. "We have blood drives to try and make it convenient for those who may not have time to go to Fairbanks, but if the date and times of the blood drives do not work for you, you can always make an appointment at our location in Fairbanks," said Mrs. Taylor. "There you can let a staff member know you are contributing for Eielson and the military will receive credit to their account." The blood collected in Alaska is primarily used in Alaska unless it is nearing expiration and can be used elsewhere, she said. Also the majority of the blood donated in the local area stays local and is used at Bassett Community Hospital and Fairbanks Memorial Hospital. Walk-in blood donations are accepted at the blood drive on a space available basis, but appointments will ensure there is a technician and seat available. For an appointment contact Senior Master Sgt. David Spencer at david.spencer@eielson.af.mil or at 377-3101. Any unit interested in hosting Eielson's monthly blood drive should also contact Sergeant Spencer. For more information visit Blood Bank of Alaska's web site at www.bloodbankofalaska.org. Blood Drive Tuesday base theater 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. appointments recommended For an appointment contact Senior Master Sgt. David Spencer. Blood donating tips and common eligibility factors: Eat before hand--being well nourished helps Hydrate--it will make it easier to draw your blood Must be between the ages of 16 - 74 (ages 16 and 17 need parental consent) Must be at least 110 lbs Can donate whole blood every 56 days Three month deferral if you've had small pox vacation or have been in close contact with someone that had small pox vaccination Twelve month deferral, from your date of return, if you were overseas in Iraq Twelve month deferral if you received a tattoo Ineligible to donate if you were overseas in the United Kingdom for three or more months anywhere from 1980 - 1996 For more information visit http://www.bloodbankofalaska.org.