ONE BLOOD - blood drive
Saturday, october 24, 2026
One Blood - Blood drive
How do I prepare before arriving?
🎒 What to BringPhoto ID:
🍳 What to Eat & Drink
- A driver’s license, state ID, or passport is mandatory.
- Medication List: Bring a list of any current prescriptions or over-the-counter drugs you take.
- 16-Year-Olds Only: Bring a signed OneBlood Parental Consent Form (also required for 17-year-olds in North Carolina).
🍳 What to Eat & Drink
- (Morning Of)Eat a Solid Meal: Eat a substantial, healthy meal within 4 hours of your appointment. Do not donate on an empty stomach.
- Focus on Iron: Choose iron-rich breakfast/lunch options like eggs, lean meats, beans, spinach, or fortified cereal.
- Avoid High Fats: Skip greasy foods like bacon, donuts, or fries. Fat in your blood can interfere with infectious disease testing, meaning your blood can't be used.
- Hydrate Constantly: Drink an extra 16 to 32 ounces of water or juice right before your appointment. Avoid caffeine and alcohol.
👕 What to Wear
⏱️ What to Expect & Do at the Drive
- Sleeves: Wear a short-sleeved shirt or a top with loose sleeves that roll up easily above the elbow.
- Layers: Wear or bring a light jacket. The donor centers and Big Red Buses are heavily air-conditioned and run cold.
⏱️ What to Expect & Do at the Drive
- Save Time: Fill out your Fast Track Health Questionnaire online on the day of your donation to skip the interview line.
- The Process: Expect a quick mini-physical (pulse, blood pressure, temperature, and iron check) before the needle stick.
- Afterward: Plan to sit in the refreshment area for 15 minutes post-donation to eat a snack, drink juice, and ensure you feel stable before leaving.