Where?

   Holy Family Academy
   239 Avenue A
   Bayonne, NJ 07002

When?

   Friday, May 14, 2010
   

Call for Info or to Register

   HFA Health Office (Tues. & Thurs.)
   201-339-7341 x23

Tips for First Time Donors

• Please remember to bring proper identification; it will be needed during the registration process.
• Increase your fluid intake and eat normally before giving blood.
• Be prepared to tell a health professional the name of the medications you are taking and the reason you are taking them.
• It's okay to be a little nervous! Just relax. Tell the staff member it's your first time and ask as many questions as you need to.
• Relax. Breathe deeply and close your eyes. There may be a slight pinch at the beginning of the donation. Otherwise, it's quick and painless.

The Blood Donation Process

• Registration: Red Cross volunteers will provide you with material relevant to blood donation and ask that you carefully review.
• Health History: To protect you and the patient who receives your blood, a trained professional will give you a brief health check, ask some questions about your medical history, check your blood pressure, temperature and pulse, and measure your blood hemoglobin level. (Hemoglobin is the protein in the blood that contains iron.)
• Donation: While you can expect to be at the blood drive for about an hour, the actual blood donation usually takes less than fifteen minutes.

• Refreshments: Here's a chance to replenish your fluids with juice, snack on cookies and pretzels, and chat with fellow donors.

After Your Donation

• Drink an extra four glasses (8 oz. each) of non-alcoholic beverages.
• Avoid strenuous exercise for the rest of the day.
• Keep your bandage on and dry for at least five hours.