LEE COUNTY, Fla. -- There currently is a need to replenish blood samples, after an organization’s response to the mass school shooting in Parkland used up most of their supplies.
One Blood says immediate needs for blood have been met, but now they need to replenish the supply in Southwest Florida -- especially o-negative blood. It’s used to treat trauma patients because it can be given to anyone...it's a universal blood type.
Now we know some people have been turned away from donating blood because there are some misconceptions. So we want to clear some of those up for you now.
According to One Blood's website, if you have high blood pressure or diabetes, as long as it is under control and treated, you can donate.
If you don’t have enough iron in your blood, just changing your diet can help you donate. You can simply eat iron-enriched foods like red meat, green vegetables and certain cereal.
If you just got a piercing, you can donate as long as it was done with sterile single-use kit and the area is healed.
Are worried you can’t donate because you have already donated this year? You can actually donate every 3 to 6 months.
If you're healthy, at least 16 years old, and weigh at least 110 pounds, you're eligible to donate.
If you want to donate, the One Blood website can help you find a location.
