Blood donors can choose between two dates this month to help save lives in Williamson County. Williamson Health and Bone and Joint Institute of Tennessee are partnering with Blood Assurance, the sole provider of blood products for Williamson Health, to host blood drives on April 22 and April 23.  

“We are entering spring severe weather season, and the need is great,” said Brooke Katz, spokesperson for Blood Assurance. “We always see people donate after the storm, but we need donors to show up before severe weather strikes. Patients in the hospital today need blood that was donated yesterday.”

The April 22^nd drive will take place from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. in the Willoughby Meeting Rooms located inside Williamson Medical Center near the main entrance. For those looking to participate in this drive, please book an appointment time here. 

The April 23^rd drive will take place from 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. in the Blood Assurance mobile unit in the Bone and Joint Institute parking lot, 3000 Edward Curd Lane in Franklin. Donors are encouraged to sign up here via the Blood Assurance website for an appointment time, though walk-ins are welcome.

Donors from both drives will receive a free “Blood Assurance Lifesaver” umbrella while supplies last.

Participants in these drives must be at least 17 years old (16 years old with parental consent), weigh 110 pounds or more and be in good health. Donors are asked to drink plenty of fluids — avoiding caffeine — and eat a meal that is rich in iron prior to donating.

For more information, visit bloodassurance.org.