Community blood drive falls short of goal

Monday’s community blood drive was greeted with cloudy skies and a bit of rain.
The blood unit collection fell short by seven of the 50 unit goal, said Emma Jenkins, community blood drive leader.
The American Red Cross team set up at the Nutrien Event Center at the Chase County Fairgrounds.
There were 48 donors with one new donor giving blood.
Blood donor Mark Berry celebrated a milestone reaching 13 gallons with his donation.
This was the first blood drive in a long time where masks were not required.
“One donor mentioned that he had not been in to donate  blood until the mask mandate was lifted,” Jenkins said.
Jenkins wanted to thank the fair board for the use of the Nutrien Expo Building.
“Imperial has very dedicated donors, and we are thankful for their continued support,” she added.
The next blood drive will be July 19 at the CCS auxilliary gym.