Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center is taking another monumental step to help increase the blood supply in our region.  As of Tuesday, May 1, The Blood Center will be accepting whole blood donations from 16-year-old donors with their parents’ consent (see below for forms).  By becoming a blood donor, 16-year-olds are showing great civic responsibility, maturity and a sense of community pride by saving up to three lives with one donation.

To be eligible, individuals who are 16 years old, 122 pounds, are in general good health and receive permission from their parents or guardian can donate blood.  At this time, donations from 16-year-old donors are limited to only whole blood donations.  Of course, individuals who are at least 17 years old, 110 pounds and in general good health also can donate.
 
Please Commit for Life by donating at least once every quarter, and spread the word letting your friends and family members know about this new opportunity. 

 

Consent Form - English

Consent Form - Español

Frequently Asked Questions

 

I heard that 16-year-olds can now donate blood.  Is that true?

Yes.  Individuals who are 16 years old and 122 pounds (with parental consent), or at least 17 years old and 110 pounds; and are in general good health can donate blood. If your son or daughter is 16 years old and has expressed interest in donating blood, but was not old enough, now could be their opportunity.  By becoming a blood donor your son or daughter is showing great civic responsibility, maturity and a sense of community pride. Through their blood donation, your son or daughter has the potential to save up to three lives!

Do other states allow 16-year-olds to donate blood?

Five other states (California, Oregon, Washington, Illinois and Iowa) have permitted blood donations from 16-year-old donors for many years. Washington, for example, has offered 16-year-olds the opportunity to donate for more than 30 years.

Why should I give blood?

Medical technology has provided many life-saving discoveries over the years, but there is still no substitute for blood. In a medical emergency, often the most important element is the availability of blood. Blood donations can help a variety of individuals: trauma victims, surgery patients, premature babies, individuals with anemia, cancer patients and many more.

What benefits are available for individuals who donate blood?

In addition to helping save up to three lives, blood donors receive many benefits For example; all donors receive a mini-physical exam at the time of their donation.  This includes the determination of hemoglobin levels (as sign of anemia), blood pressure, temperature and various blood screening tests.  After each donation, donors will receive their blood type and cholesterol level.  Additionally, individuals who Commit for Life receive points that can be redeemed for great items in the Commit for Life store, invitations to specialty recognition events and more.

Can you explain the blood donation process?

Donating blood takes less than one hour from the time you arrive until you are ready to leave.  First you complete a registration form with basic information such as your name, address and birthdate. You also will present identification that shows your name and your photo or signature. Then, one of our medical professionals will check your blood pressure, temperature and hemoglobin level (iron); take a look at your arm to make sure it is clear of any signs of infection; and ask you confidential questions about your health to ensure that you are eligible to donate blood that day. The actual whole blood donation takes between ten and 20 minutes. Afterwards, you will be given juice and light snacks to replenish lost fluids during donation.

Are there any special instructions I should follow before donating whole blood?

You should eat a good meal that includes iron-rich foods – like red meat; green, leafy vegetables; and iron-fortified cereals – and drink plenty of fluids one to two hours before donating blood.

What form of identification (ID) is needed to donate?

The following forms of ID will be accepted:

1. Driver’s license

2. State-issued ID card

3. Student identification card

4. Passport, Visa or green card

5. Personal verification of donor identity

How long will it take to replenish the pint of blood I donate?

Your body will replace the blood volume (plasma) within 48 hours. It will take four to eight weeks for your body to completely replace the red blood cells you donated. The average adult has eight to 12 pints of blood. You will not notice any physical changes related to the pint you donated.

What happens to my blood after I donate?
Your blood will be tested for various infectious agents, including HIV and hepatitis. It will then be processed into components (red cells, platelets, plasma). After processing, red cells can be stored for 42 days, platelets can be stored for five days and plasma can be frozen for one year. Your single unit of blood can help save the lives of up to three separate patients.

How often can I give whole blood?

You can donate whole blood every 56 days; however, all we ask is for individuals to Commit for Life and donate once every quarter.  It takes three easy steps to Commit for Life:

1. Donate at least once every quarter;

2. Allow The Blood Center to contact you; and

3. Spread the word, encouraging family and friends to donate.