INDfamily

Tops blood drive helps critically low blood bank supply

by Kari Walker

Blood is something we all have and all need. But, what if you were in a critical state of health and needed a few pints - would there be enough?

Sherry Latour, owner of Tops Appliances & Cabinetry, knows a thing or two about experiencing a need for blood. In the last two years, her son Evan, age 27, has required three transfusions for an autoimmune disorder. His most recent transfusion was earlier this month. "I didn't give the supply of blood much thought before - but now I realize that my son's life has been saved many times because so many people are generous and give the gift of life," Latour says. She has decided to pay it forward and host a blood drive with the help of Our Lady of Lourdes Blood Donor Center on Monday, July 1.

"Blood shortages are common this time of year due to summertime injuries and increased traffic accidents from travel," says Beverly Meche of the Lourdes Blood Donor Center. Often regular donors do not stop and donate due to summer vacations and rising outdoor temperatures. Donors who are blood type O- are highly encouraged to give as this is the universal blood donor type - anyone can receive this type of blood. However, Lourdes also reports that across the board all blood types in the bank are low and approaching a critical need.

To give blood, you need to be at least 17 years of age, weigh 110 pounds and be in overall good health. A pre-screening process will further determine if a donor is eligible and includes a mini-physical of blood pressure screening and iron count levels. Donors will receive a free T-shirt and snacks - Tops will be grilling up hot dogs and serving cookies. In addition, donors have the chance to win a Boos Block cutting board and enter into a drawing for a $500 gift card to Cajun Palms.

The blood drive will take place Monday, July 1, from 12-5 p.m. at Tops, located at 5826 Johnston St.

For additional information, contact Tops at (337) 984-4057 or contact Our Lady of Lourdes Blood Donor Center for upcoming blood drives in the community.