The UAB/American Red Cross post-Labor Day blood drive nearly reached its goal, netting 770 units out of a goal of 800 during the four day drive. 56 percent of the donors were UAB employees.
The drive was timely, in part because blood is traditionally in short supply at the end of summer. In addition, the drive coincided with the arrival in quick succession of three major storms, Gustav, Hanna and Ike, making blood collection even more important. Gustav and Hanna both caused disruptions in normal blood collection along the Gulf coast and eastern seaboard, and Hurricane Ike has the potential to cause major damage and injuries as it makes landfall this week.
UAB employees can still donate blood at the Blood Donor Center on the second floor of the North Pavilion. Go to www.uabtouchpoints.org to make an appointment and to register for the opportunity to collect valuable prizes.