Each year during August, Blood Assurance challenges residents in Catoosa and Walker counties to become first-time blood donors during a time in which blood donations run dangerously low. Not only does Blood Assurance hope to target new blood donors, but the regional blood center is encouraging residents who have not donated in the past year to return to the habit of donating blood every 56 days. Businesses who do not currently participate in blood drives are also asked to consider hosting an event.

“It’s a great way for companies to show their commitment to the community and it allows their employees give back to the community as well,” said Bob Cheli, Blood Assurance donor recruiter.

Blood Assurance typically experiences a decline in blood donations during the summer months due to vacations, weather and the fact that schools are not in session. School blood drives account for approximately 10 percent of all blood donations collected by Blood Assurance.

In 2006, the North Georgia Advisory Board of Blood Assurance created the concept of “New Blood in North Georgia.” The committee is comprised of several business leaders and elected officials from both counties, who serve year-round as ambassadors for Blood Assurance by promoting the need for blood donations.

Cancer patients, trauma victims and patients undergoing organ transplants and heart surgeries are some of the reasons why blood transfusions are needed.

Eighteen months ago, Walker County commissioner Bebe Heiskell received more than 30 units of blood after experiencing complications from surgery. Heiskell said she is appreciative to people who make blood donations so that she and others in need would have enough blood to survive.

“Bring a friend with you, encourage your coworkers and family members to donate. You never know when you might need blood,” said Phil Erli, executive vice president of Ringgold Telephone Company and chairman of the Blood Assurance North Georgia Advisory Board. Erli supports the idea of donating with a friend, making it easier to give the gift of life.

Blood Assurance is the only provider of blood products to all area healthcare facilities, including Hutcheson Medical Center.

Now through August 31, visitors at Blood Assurance in Fort Oglethorpe or any blood drive in Catoosa or Walker Counties will be eligible to register for several prizes including a GE 30 inch free-standing electric range donated by Roper Corporation; a home security system donated by Ringgold Telephone Company; a $200 savings bond donated by Gateway Bank and a $100 gas card donated by Blood Assurance.

Registrants must ask for an entry form for the “New Blood Heroes in North Georgia” promotion upon registration. In addition to these prizes, visitors will also be put into a drawing for Blood Assurance’s current promotion. For complete contest rules, visit www.bloodassurance.org and click on the “New Blood in North Georgia” link.

To be eligible to donate, you must be at least 17 years old (16 years old with parental consent), weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health. The process usually takes about 30 minutes and includes a complimentary snack and t-shirt. Donors are asked to drink plenty of fluids, avoid caffeine and eat a meal that is rich in iron prior to donating.

If your church or civic group is interested in hosting a blood drive, please contact Bob Cheli at 423-667-0719 or bobcheli@bloodassurance.org.

Blood Assurance is located at 2720 LaFayette Rd. in Fort Oglethorpe. The center is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information, contact Blood Assurance at (706) 861-5983.