The Villages Parrot Head Club hosted their first blood drive of the year Thursday, welcoming donors at Villages Public Safety Department Station 44.
Last year, the Parrot Head Blood Drives collected 700 units of blood, which benefitted 2,100 recipients.
Thursday’s blood drive, the first of three this year, saw much success as the group’s goal of 150 units was surpassed.
Watch video of the blood drive here:
Event coordinators Skipp Todd and Linda Storey said that they would not have been surprised if the blood drive reached 200 units donated.
“We would like to thank all the Villagers that came out,” Todd said in regard to the high amount of walk-ins and donations. “I’m just glad we can keep doing it, I’m glad the fire department is willing to work with us,” he later stated.
The group collaborated with longtime partner OneBlood to host the drive.
Those who donated received a free Rialto movie ticket, a coupon to Cody’s at Lake Sumter Landing, refreshments and a wellness checkup. Double Red Cell donors received an extra movie ticket.
“It’s great, I always like to help out, especially with this group,” said Village of Springhill resident Theresa Grasso who has been donating blood over 30 years.
This year was her third time to donate blood in The Villages since moving from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She and her husband donated, while they were accompanied by their cockapoo Jetson.
Some of those who could not donate blood gave their time instead. Parrot Head Club member Linda Kuehn of the Village of Caroline said she was not eligible to donate blood, but decided to donate her time instead by helping out, which she enjoys very much.
The group’s next two blood drives will take place on May 11 and Sept. 11 at Station 44.