RHINELANDER’S PIONEER PARK BECOMES A  M*A*S*H  UNIT

STAR JOURNAL REPORT

The Community Blood Center (CBC) will host the annual MASH-themed blood drive Tuesday, July 19 at Pioneer Park in Rhinelander. As schools close and busy summer schedules begin, CBC encourages eligible donors to make time for blood donation. The MASH unit will be accepting donors from 8 a.m.to 5 p.m.

“Our annual MASH blood drive is crucial to our blood supply during the summer months,” said Kris Belanger, Vice President of Donor Services at CBC. “A blood donation at MASH can make a major difference. One life-saving donation ensures local hospital patients have the blood products they need, and on top of that, the event is a lot fun!”

All presenting donors will receive a free MASH 2016 t-shirt, complimentary lunch and frozen treats. Plus, CBC’s local Be The Match representative will be on site from 11a.m. – 2 p.m. to answer questions and sign donors up to be a part of the world’s largest bone marrow registry. They will also be selling raffle tickets for a 2016 Camaro, which will be parked on site.

Anyone who donates at MASH will also be eligible to enter CBC’s “All Aboard” summer contest with the chance to win a boat cruise for up to eight people on the Milwaukee River Cruise Line: Edelweiss! The prize package will also include VIP limo service to and from Milwaukee and a beverage voucher.

This event is open to the public. Walk-ins are accepted, however, appointments are appreciated. To schedule a blood donation for MASH 2016, please call (800) 280-4102 or visit www.communityblood.org/donate-blood.

Donors must meet specific eligibility criteria outlined by the FDA, accrediting organizations (such as AABB) and individual donation centers. To donate in Wisconsin, individuals must be at least 16 years old, in general good health and must meet weight and hemoglobin level requirements on donation day. Donors are encouraged to eat a regular meal and drink plenty of water prior to donation, and present a photo ID upon donation.