The Blood Connection (TBC) will be accepting donations Thursday, Sept. 1, at St. Luke’s Hospital in Columbus. Aside from the joy of helping others, all donors will receive two Regal movie tickets and 500 TBC Rewards points that are redeemable online at TheBloodConnection.org.

Eligible donors are invited to give blood either by stopping by between 10 a.m.-3 p.m. or by calling 828-233-5302 to make an appointment. A photo ID or donor card is required to donate.

“All you have to do is donate blood one time to save three lives,” Kathy Woodham, marketing and public relations director at St. Luke’s Hospital, said. “It’s a great example of how you don’t have to be in the operating room to save a life.”

“We partner with The Blood Connection for all of our blood and blood products,” Woodham said. “So, what you donate here on Sept. 1 will truly help us serve the needs of patients in our community.”

Tonya Cochran, North Carolina territory representative for The Blood Connection, said there is always a high demand for O Negative blood because it is the “universal donor.” However, any and all blood types are highly encouraged to donate.

TBC’s mobile unit will be located in the parking lot near St. Luke’s Rehabilitation Services. For more information, or to schedule an appointment, contact The Blood Connection at 828-233-5302 or visit www.thebloodconnection.org.

 –  article submitted by Cody Owens