Donors with Oklahoma Blood Institute (OBI) can not only give back with their donation, but can also further pediatric medical research. OBI will host a blood drive with McDonalds from noon to 5:30 p.m., Tuesday, August 7, at the Altus Public Library meeting room on 421 N. Hudson Street.

Anyone who is healthy and 16 years or older* is encouraged to donate. Donors will receive two tickets to the Oklahoma City Zoo, a “Feel Wild” summer T-shirt and Donor Rewards points.

Donors who wish to support Children’s Miracle Network hospitals - locally, through Children’s Hospital Foundation - can forgo the “Feel Wild” T-shirt and, in turn, OBI will make a monetary donation of similar value to the Children’s Hospital Foundation. It’s a chance to doubly-give to Oklahoma children battling critical health conditions – through the life-saving gift of blood and also through support for pediatric medical research, community outreach and treatment initiatives.

“There will be children who need blood in the coming weeks as a result of life-threatening health issues,” said John Armitage, M.D., Oklahoma Blood Institute president and CEO. “They are counting on you to give. The need for blood impacts all ages, often unexpectedly as a result of accident or illness.”

Oklahoma Blood Institute is the ninth largest, non-profit blood center in America, providing every drop of blood needed by patients in 144 medical facilities across Oklahoma, including Jackson County Memorial Hospital.

During summer months, it is especially important to increase fluid intake the entire day before giving blood and to eat a complete meal within six hours of donating. Plenty of air-conditioned comfort in an indoor setting is required at all blood drives.

For more information or to make an appointment to donate, contact Oklahoma Blood Institute at 877-340-8777 or visit us at www.obi.org.

* 16 year olds must weigh at least 125 and provide signed parental permission, 17 year olds must weigh at least 125 pounds, 18+ year olds must weigh at least 110 pounds.