Cliffside Masonic Lodge Answers The Red Cross Call

Gary Carson (left), and Forest Carpenter relax as they give blood. Both are assisted by Red Cross nurse Kim Odel (right).

We hear about it often. It seems very often. The Red Cross needing blood donors. Even now the Red Cross continues to have an urgent need for blood and platelet donations. Even though recently the Red Cross saw a 7.5 percent increase in the number of blood donors which resulted in 11,800 additional donations beyond what was anticipated, the need remains urgent due to the increased demand. Blood products are being distributed as quickly as donations are coming in but the need for more is urgent.

In Rutherford County, the Cliffside Masonic Lodge 460 sets an outstanding example of what can be done when everyone comes together. In this small community the Red Cross Blood Drive is outstanding and sets a standard for others to follow.

The Cliffside Masonic Lodge blood donations in 2013 was 238 units! An amazing total. Just think 238 units can save 714 lives. This year, the 2014 blood drive should surpass 2013. 

If you were there in the basement of the lodge building, you found many giving blood and after they were not offered the usual glass of juice or a donut. The Cliffside Masonic Lodge offered everyone a full breakfast. Juice, coffee, grits, country ham, livermush, biscuits and gravy and soda and chips to go. It was great to see how far they go to get donors in the door and because of their tremendous generosity, they get folks from near and far. 

It is a community event and they make sure they reach out to get as much blood donated as possible. Someone said: “You never know how important it is to give blood until you have an urgent need within your family for blood. That’s when you see how much good these blood drives do and how helpful they are.” 

This years event at Cliffside Masonic Lodge 460 was coordinated by member Wayne Millis. Those giving blood could not say enough good things about the program. Gary Carson who has been giving blood since 1984 said: “I give blood every chance I can.” Another donor said he gives at least twice a year. 

You can not emphasize how important it is to give blood to save lives. Cliffside Masonic Lodge 460 is just one of many locations that you can take a little time to donate life saving blood. If you have any questions, here is how you can donate and become a part of this great program. You need to give so others may live!

Simply call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.