American Red Cross

Proof that yes, you can review just about anything on Unilocal: I’m reviewing my experience giving blood at the American Red Cross donor center off Bethel & Sawmill Rd.
First of all, if you can donate, please do. It’s critical. It saves lives. And it’s a moral obligation to help.
I’ve been receiving regular calls about donating blood by some pretty demanding Red Cross, we shall say «salespeople,» because that’s how I feel I’m being treated when they call. They demand to know a date I’m available and they’ve been known to be relentless at times. Makes sense if the need is as great as they say it is though, right?
I finally made an appointment and chose to visit the Carriage Place location. I didn’t know the Red Cross had blood donation centers in strip malls, but there it was.
The, what I’m assuming was a volunteer, woman was pretty coarse as we exchanged info. Not the greatest first impression, but I’m guessing she runs quite a tight ship.
The place was run pretty efficiently and I was in and out in about 40 mins, including paperwork, the interview and actually giving the blood. Everyone seemed knowledgeable and comfortable, which made me feel confident and relaxed. Huge plus. I have a couple horror stories about past blood donations.
After you’re done you can take your pick of snacks, juice, coffee and water while chatting with other people who are either there to give or receive blood, and then boom. You’re all done.
The hours are limited and they prefer appointments so be sure to give them a call to check or schedule one.
Oh, and who designs their informational materials?! Hello 1986! They are horrible!

There are quite a few locations from which to choose, but this is the best and most accommodating for walk-in’s. They have the same standard meet and greet when you walk in. Normally this would get annoying, but when it comes to sticking a needle in my arm, repetition and the expected is a must.
My iron is usually pretty low, so we’ve arranged a ‘system’ of checking my hemoglobin level before even taking the computerized questionnaire. No more wasting time checking in when I can’t complete the process.
Although, this Sawmill Rd. location is pretty cool with walk-in’s, I would still schedule an appointment. You can do it online and it’s the easiest thing in the world. The website tell you how many appointments that are currently available the day or the day before.