Memorial Day Weekend is known as the unofficial kickoff to summer, and Medic Regional Blood Center is preparing for the increase in blood product demand by hosting the annual Summer Kickoff Cookout from May 18-22.
Grilling at the Crossville Donor Center at 96 Hayes St. will be from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday, May 19.
Donors will receive a special-edition Cookout T-shirt, a ticket to the Array Variety Show, automatic entry to win Knoxville Smokies tickets, and coupons for cabin rentals and Knoxville area eateries. First-time donors will receive a $25 e-gift card.
Appointments can be made online at www.medicblood.org, via the Medic app, or by calling 865-524-3074. Walk-ins are welcome.
Medic is the primary blood product provider for 24 hospitals, including Cumberland Medical Center, and multiple medical transport services across 23 counties. Medic services Covenant Health System, Blount Memorial, Dolly Parton’s Children’s Hospital, Tennova Healthcare, and UT Medical Center.
As a reminder, the blood, platelets, and plasma products on the shelves now are what would be used in a trauma event. Donated blood takes at least three days to be processed and ready for distribution.
Medic is an independent, nonprofit organization. Products donated through Medic directly help community members in East Tennessee and southeastern Kentucky.
Visit www.medicblood.org for more information.