November blood drives slated across isle

In November, the month of Thanksgiving, many Hawaii residents are especially thankful to the volunteer blood donors who, over the years, have given them the gift of life.

“Patients who have received blood know the true meaning of Thanksgiving.” said a spokesman for the Blood Bank of Hawaii, which has scheduled blood drives next month in Kona, Waimea and Hilo. “In the true spirit of the season, please take an hour out of your day this November to make a lifelong impact for Hawaii’s patients and their loved ones.”

Listed below are the Big Island blood drives in November, although specific details may be subject to change. Call 1-800-372-9966 or visit www.BBH.org to schedule an appointment or check on drive information.

— Monday, Nov. 4: 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Church of Latter Day Saints Kona Stake Cultural Hall at 75-230 Kalani St.;

— Tuesday, Nov. 5: 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Church of Latter Day Saints Waimea Ward Cultural Hall at 65-1168 Kapiolani Road;

— Wednesday, Nov. 6: 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the LDS Kona Stake Cultural Hall;

— Monday, Nov. 25: 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., with the University of Hawaii at Hilo Athletic Department, in Campus Center Room 301 at 200 W. Kawili St. in Hilo;

— Tuesday, Nov. 26: 7:45 a.m. to 4:15 p.m., with the Kiwanis of East Hawaii, at Aunty Sally Kaleohano’s Luau Hale at 799 Piilani St. in Hilo, and

— Wednesday, Nov. 27: 7 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., with Sure Foundation Hilo, in the Prince Kuhio Plaza lobby at 111 E. Puainako St. in Hilo.

Sign up to save lives today. The requirements to be a blood donor are simple. You need to be in good health and age 18 or older, although a 17-year-old may donate with a signed Blood Bank of Hawaii parent/legal guardian consent form. You need to weigh 110 pounds or more and bring a valid photo ID with your date of birth.