Published: June 08, 2009 10:50 pm      

2009 challenge championship

State prisons get by federal lockup in blood drive

CUMBERLAND — The American Red Cross Blood Services — Greater Alleghenies Region congratulates the Western Correctional Institution and North Branch Correctional Institution for becoming the 2009 Prison Challenge champions.

The state prisons challenged reigning champs Federal Correctional Institution — Cumberland to see who could collect the most blood during American Red Cross bloodmobiles held last week.

On Wednesday, FCI collected 28 units out of a goal of 30. WCI/NBCI answered the challenge Thursday, bringing in 35 units out of a goal of 30.

“It truly was a team effort and the wardens and personnel at both prisons are to be commended for their dedication to their mission of recruiting members of their organizations to donate blood,” said Carey Toth, field representative for the American Red Cross. “These units of blood, once separated into components, have the potential to help save the lives of up to 189 hospital patients.”

One blood donation can help save as many as three lives and it affects the friends and family members of those patients who benefit from the gift.

Anyone at least 17 years old (16 with parental consent form in Maryland) who weighs 110 pounds or more and is in generally good health may donate blood. Call 1-800-GIVE LIFE to sign up. Walk-ins are welcome. For more information, call the Western Potomac Chapter, 400 Cumberland St., Cumberland, at (301) 722-1760, Ext. 101.

Upcoming area bloodmobiles include:

• Wednesday — Frostburg State University Cordts PE Center, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Flintstone Fire Hall, 12:30 to 6 p.m.

• Thursday — Northern Garrett High School, noon to 6 p.m.

• Saturday — Cumberland Community Church, Bedford Street, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

• Monday — Chapter House, 400 Cumberland St., 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Garrett Memorial Hospital, Oakland, 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

• June 16 — Keyser American Legion, noon to 6 p.m.

• June 19 — Holiday Inn, noon to 6 p.m.