LifeServe Blood Center already was scheduled to host a blood drive on Friday in Perry, but with the tragic events last week, additional ones have been slated.

LifeServe Blood Center Director of Public Relations and Marketing Shay Willis says the need to donate blood is always crucial and they make frequent stops throughout the state to give people that opportunity. She tells Raccoon Valley Radio their office received calls minutes after the Perry School shooting on January 4th and LifeServe was able to send “O-Positive,” and “O-Negative” blood types as well as platelets to help treat victims. Willis describes the importance of donating blood.

“I would just say to the Perry community this is just one small way, this is one small gesture that you can do to give back. If you’ve never donated blood, it’s the perfect time to give it a try. If you’ve donated blood and it’s been a while, give it a try again. If you’re a regular donor and you’re not eligible, just know you’re already doing a great thing. Because it was truly the products on the shelves of the hospitals that saved lives last week.”

Two blood drives will be held tomorrow at Perry Hy-Vee, 1215 141st Street, from 8am-1pm and at the Perry Fire Department, located at 908 Willis Avenue, from 11am-4pm. Then on Friday the Dallas County Hospital will host a blood drive from 12:30-5pm and back at Hy-Vee in Perry from 8am-1pm. Click the link below for more information or the eligibility requirements to donate blood www.lifeserve.info/perry