We Are Blood, the exclusive blood supplier for over 50 hospitals and medical facilities across Central Texas, is joining forces with FOX 7 Austin and the City of Bastrop to host a holiday blood drive next week.
The blood drive is set for December 17, running from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Bastrop Convention Center. The donations collected during this event will directly aid Central Texans who are in need, highlighting the significant impact a single donor can make.
Community Support
Bastrop County District Judge Chris Duggan emphasized the ongoing necessity for blood donations. “There’s always going to be a need for blood from now until eternity,” he stated, recognizing the critical role that blood donors play.
Judge Duggan has a personal connection to blood donation, recalling how a college friend encouraged him to donate blood at the University of Texas in Austin back in February 1983. Since then, he has donated over 10 gallons of blood, completing more than 85 individual donations.
“I love it. It’s a very easy thing to do. The staff at the blood center are extremely professional and make the experience enjoyable,” Duggan added.
The objective of the blood drive is to maintain a steady supply of blood during the holiday season, a time when the demand often exceeds the donations due to travel, inclement weather, and school breaks.
We Are Blood requires approximately 200 donations daily to fulfill local transfusion needs. “In my role as a district judge, I frequently witness serious accidents and understand that many victims may require blood,” Duggan noted, stressing the urgent need for donations.
Encouraging Community Participation
The City of Bastrop is rallying together for this initiative, with the mayor, police chief, and president of the Bastrop County first responders all expected to attend. They are encouraging residents to give the invaluable gift of blood this holiday season. As an added incentive, all donors will receive a complimentary T-shirt.
For Judge Duggan, the commitment to donating blood is personal and lifelong. “I will continue to donate as long as they will accept my blood. If someone needs it, I want to ensure it is available for them,” he affirmed.
Event Details
The holiday blood drive will take place on December 17, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Bastrop Convention Center. Individuals can book appointments online via the We Are Blood website, though walk-ins are also welcome.
For further information, additional details can be found on their website.
