Mitzi Breaux of United Blood Services visited 'Mornings With Ken and Bernie' today to announce the start of the 6th annual United Blood Services 'Race Against The Clock' blood drive.

Breaux stressed the importance of the blood drive at this time of year saying,

Donations fall off at this time of year with children being out of school and families off on vacation.  With the lack of donations we have severe shortfalls in blood supply levels.  This year as usual both O positive and O negative levels are critically low.

To entice donors this year United Blood Services has teamed up with community partners including Town Square Media to offer premiums to donors.  According to Breaux,

Each donor will receive a pint of Blue Bell ice cream, a Race Against The Clock tee shirt and movie passes while supplies last.  In addition we have hourly prizes during the 24 hour drive so even those who donate in the middle of the night will be rewarded. We have gift certificates to various businesses, an iPad and even a 'rain check' for the new Xbox game so one lucky person can claim it when it is released.

With donations being accepted around the clock for a 24 hour period Breaux said,

It's easy to donate.  You can log on at bloodhero.com to schedule an appointment and donate at your convenience.  Be sure to use the sponsor code 24.  That's the number twenty four.  You can also call 337-235-life.  That's 337-235-5433.

Listen to the interview:

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