Pittsburgh, Cleveland fans can donate via Blood Feud

The Mercer County Chapter of the American Red Cross is hoping local fans of Cleveland and Pittsburgh sports teams will turn out in July to support their teams and donate blood.

Blood Feud 2000 is scheduled from noon to 6 p.m. July 3 at The Rosemont banquet and conference center in Sharon. Jeff Hanley, blood services coordinator, said the goal is 250 pints. He said last year’s goal was 200 pints and 245 were collected, causing the Red Cross to increase the goal. Pittsburgh fans won the 1999 feud.

The Red Cross held an organizational meeting Wednesday for this year’s Cleveland Fans Vs. Pittsburgh Fans blood drive. Ed Newmeyer, director of marketing and community relations for Sharon Regional Healthy System, explained the importance of blood donations to the Red Cross for the hospital. He said having enough blood will especially be important after the new Heart Institute opens around July 17.

Pat Miller, a Red Cross representative, told a story about how blood donations affected her life. Mrs. Miller said 25 years ago her father was in a terrible accident and had to have several blood transfusions. She said if blood had not been available, her father would not have been able to walk her down the aisle at her wedding.

Cathy Quimby, a donor resources field representative, said anyone who is at least 17 years old and weighs at least 105 pounds is eligible to donate. She said many people who are on medication can donate, with the exception of a few medications including antibiotics. Also, anyone who has gotten a tattoo within the last year cannot donate.

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