Blood donation drive at Benpres Building on Nov 21

This is a press release from the Benpress Building Council.

MANILA, Philippines – Blood. You can’t live without it but you have the power to give it away.

Offer the gift of life to our kapamilya in need through the blood donation drive of the Benpres Building Committee (BBC) to be conducted at the 5th Floor Executive Lounge of Benpres Building this Friday, November 21.

If you’re between 16 and 65 years old, at least 120 lbs., generally in good health, and your blood pressure is between 90 and 160 mmHg (systolic) and 60 and 100 mmHg (diastolic), then you’re a possible candidate.

Individuals currently suffering from cough, runny nose or fever, and have fresh wounds and large tattoos, however, are discouraged from donating blood. Those who ingested antibiotics or aspirin in the past three weeks or underwent any kind of operation within the year will also be ruled out.

If you meet these requirements and want to help, here are some reminders: get enough rest and sleep, make sure to avoid ingesting alcohol or any medication at least 24 hours prior. You may eat something right before the activity but avoid fatty foods. Also remember to drink plenty of fluids, such as water and juice.

Here’s what to expect during the actual bloodletting: after registering and filling up the donor registration form, your weight will be taken, and your blood type and haemoglobin checked. A physician will also be on hand to examine the blood donors. Depending on your weight and blood pressure, 350cc or 450cc of blood will be extracted from you.

The whole process will take approximately 10 minutes.

After you have donated blood, immediately rest for 5 to 10 minutes. Avoid bending down and engaging in strenuous activities such as lifting heavy objects, operating machinery or driving. If you feel dizzy, lie down with your feet raised and drink lots of juice—the feeling should pass after a few minutes.

Treat discoloration and swelling on the punctured area by applying cold compress for the first 24 hours and hot compress for the next 24 hours. – Rappler.com

If you want to join this BBC activity on November 21, please confirm with Ea Alarcio-Dulay at 449-2213. The BBC will provide refreshments to successful donors. For more information, you may visit their website here.