ATHENS, Ohio -- An Emergency Relief Blood Drive, co-sponsored by the Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine and Ohio University Athletics, is being scheduled for Thursday, September 27 from 12 noon to 7 p.m. in the Convocation Center Lobby for the university campus and the public. To make an appointment, call 593-9572.

"We are appealing to people of all blood types to join us in responding to yesterday's national tragedy," said Tia Trivison, Mgr. of Marketing at the University Osteopathic Medical Center and drive organizer. "The Central Ohio Region of the American Red Cross Blood Services has informed me that large volumes of blood will be needed within the next several weeks to help treat survivors from yesterday's traumatic explosions."

The drive is being dedicated to the victims of these terrorist attacks in response to the outpouring of calls from the generous residents of SE Ohio who haved call our center and the Red Cross hoping to actively help. This drive will be the earliest opportunity for people to donate blood in Athens county, as crews from the Red Cross are completely booked for the month of September.

To donate blood, a person must be at least 17 yrs. old, weigh at least 110 lbs. and be in good health. Also, anyone who has donated blood on or after August 1 is not yet eligible to donate again. All donors need to bring their donor card or picture ID with them to the drive.

The drive is being supported by several area restaurants with donations of food for donors to enjoy in the canteen. For more information about blood donation, contact Tia Trivison at the University Osteopathic Medical Center at 593-9572 or the American Red Cross at 593-5273.