Pictured: CCHC Donor Care Specialists Gina Bolden and Lyndsee Lacasse work a recent blood drive at Cape Cod Community College.
Small Act Saves Lives
January is National Blood Donor Month, a time to raise awareness about the critical need for blood donations and celebrate the individuals who give the gift of life with every donation.
As winter chills set in, blood supplies tend to dwindle. This month serves as a powerful reminder that the simplest acts of kindness — rolling up your sleeve and giving blood — can make a life-saving difference for patients undergoing surgeries, cancer treatments and trauma care. It’s an opportunity to step forward and encourage regular donors to continue their life-saving contributions.
Jonathan DeCoste, Senior Blood Donor Recruiter at Cape Cod Healthcare, coordinates the monthly local blood drives and leads community outreach efforts to inspire people to donate blood. The drives take place at various locations, including police stations, churches, schools, Cape Cod Hospital and Falmouth Hospital.
“Traditionally, January is a tough time for us to collect blood with the cold weather, snowbirds and seasonal colds.,” says Jonathan. “Every donation makes a difference and helps us get through this critical time.”
Upcoming blood drives at CCH and FH– All donors receive a Cumberland Farms gift card
- Thursday, January 23, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Lorusso Boardroom at Cape Cod Hospital
- Friday, January 24, 9:40 a.m. - 4 p.m., Burwell Conference Room at Falmouth Hospital
We recently stopped by the Nicholas G. Xiarhos Blood Donor Center at Cape Cod Hospital and a blood drive in Sandwich to ask several members of our CCHC blood team — Colby Merwin, Teri Lotterhand, Gina Bolden and Jonathan DeCoste — to share interesting facts and tips for first-time and returning donors. From staying hydrated to what to eat (before and after), these steps can make all the difference for a smooth blood donation. Click below to watch video.
Tips before your donation
- Have iron-rich foods such as red meat, fish, poultry, beans or spinach
- Good a good night’s sleep
- Drink extra liquids
Tips for the day of your donation
- Drink an extra 16 oz. of water (or other non-alcoholic drink) before your appointment.
- Eat a healthy meal, avoiding fatty foods like hamburgers, fries or ice cream.
- Wear a shirt with sleeves that you can roll up above your elbows.
- Let us know if you have a preferred arm or vein that has been used successfully in the past to draw blood.
- Relax, listen to music, talk to other donors or read while you donate.
Tips for after donating
- Enjoy a snack - Relax for a few minutes in a recovery area — have some cookies or other snacks
- Drink extra fluids - Drink an extra four (8 oz.) glasses of liquids and avoid alcohol over the next 24 hours
- Don’t do any heavy lifting or vigorous exercise for the rest of the day.
- Keep eating iron-rich foods
FAQs/Stats
How long does it take to give blood?
If you have scheduled an appointment with us, you should be done in approximately 35-40 minutes from the time you sign in to the time you enjoy a light refreshment before departing. The actual blood-drawing process takes only about 10 minutes.
How much blood is taken?
We collect a pint-sized bag of blood from each donor, plus several small test tubes for screening.
How often can I donate blood and platelets?
Most healthy adults can donate whole blood every 56 days (about 2 months).
Where does my blood go?
Your donation benefits your family, friends and neighbors.
How do I find a blood drive near me?
You can visit our website to view an up-to-date list of clinics in your area. To schedule an appointment at the Nicholas G. Xiarhos Blood Center inside CCH, please call 508-862-5663.
Is there a minimum weight for donors to donate blood?
Yes, 110 pounds.
