Blood Drive scheduled at health center

CHESAPEAKE -- American Health Center in Chesapeake will conduct a blood drive for the American Red Cross on May 23.

The center's chiropractor, Dr. Adam Brooks, is hoping the communities of Lawrence County will unite with him in his desire to help the American Red Cross. The Red Cross is in desperate need of all blood types.

"I am really hoping for a good turnout on May 23," Brooks said.

The event will have the blood drive from 1-6 p.m. As an incentive, AHC will offer free postural/spinal screenings as well as free chair massages. Plus, if the thought of a screening and massage are not enough, refreshments will be served as well.

Anyone interested in donating blood is encouraged to call AHC or just stop in to schedule an appointment to donate. However, even if you do not drop by until the day of the Blood Drive to donate, you will not be turned away. The whole procedure, according to Brooks, only takes about 10-15 minutes.

Afterwards, donors can enjoy refreshments and a massage before returning to their daily routine. Donors should plan to eat within three hours before giving blood. This assures the donor's blood sugar does not drop drastically after donating blood.

When asked about his motivation for scheduling this Blood Drive, Brooks said that one of his Chiropractic Assistants, Linda Adkins, had worked closely with the Red Cross for several years and wanted the center to be involved.

"She approached me about doing this because she knows that demand for blood goes up during the summer months," Brooks said. "I thought it was a great idea and an excellent way to provide community outreach. Every time you donate blood you are helping to save a life. That is important."