Every summer has a story. Oklahoma Blood Institute is asking Oklahomans to make their summer story a lifesaving one by donating blood for local patients!

The Oklahoma Blood Institute is hosting a blood drive with Allen High School on Tuesday, May 11 ^th , from 9:30 to 1:45 PM at Allen High School gym lobby. Individuals ages sixteen and up are urged to give blood.

Successful blood donors will receive a special summer t-shirt and their choice of one free adult admission to Science Museum Oklahoma, one free adult admission to Frontier City Theme Park or two free admissions to Safari Joe’s H2O Water Park.

“Summer traditionally challenges our ability to collect blood products, as many are vacationing and outside of their normal routines,” said Dr. John Armitage, President and CEO of Oklahoma Blood Institute. “We’re so thankful to our loyal summer partners for helping us reward those who make their summer a lifesaving one by donating blood for those in need.”

Appointments to donate can be made online at obi. org or by calling 877-340-8777. While COVID-19 vaccination is not required of blood donors, those who have been vaccinated can donate immediately, assuming they are feeling well. Blood donation typically takes only about an hour, and one donation saves up to three lives.

*16-year-olds must weigh at least 125 pounds and provide signed parental permission; 17-year-olds must weigh at least 125 pounds; 18+ year olds must weigh at least 110 pounds. Photo ID required.

Oklahoma Blood Institute is the 6 ^th -largest independent blood center in the nation, providing more than 90% of Oklahoma’s blood supply to over 160 hospitals and medical facilities. For more information, visit obi.org.