Many generous Americans nationwide have been donating blood since the terrorist attacks on September 11 to ensure a blood supply for all Americans. However, blood is still in short supply. Together with North Central Blood Services, Uponor Wirsbo is hosting a blood drive at their Apple Valley manufacturing facility on June 19, 2002 from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

The American Red Cross is urging more people to get involved in blood donations. To give blood, you must be healthy, be at least 17 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds, and not have donated blood in the last 56 days.

"We all expect blood to be there for us, but barely a fraction of those who can give do. Yet sooner or later, virtually all of us will face a time in which we will need blood," said Sue Markworth, Uponor Wirsbo's bloodmobile coordinator. "We need people to volunteer their time, make financial contributions and donate blood. Today at Uponor Wirsbo, we are especially urging people to join us in giving blood."

There is no upper age limit as long as you are in good health with no restrictions or limitations to your activities. Each donor receives a brief examination during which temperature, pulse, blood pressure and blood count (hemoglobin or hematocrit) are measured to ensure the donor is in good health.

"As the need for blood continues to rise, we urge all eligible donors to roll up their sleeves for a good cause," said Jon Siess, spokesperson for North Central Blood Services. "These blood heroes are ensuring that the safest possible blood is readily available whenever and wherever needed." The time commitment is minimal. Helping neighbors in need requires a gift of blood. For more information or to make an appointment, call Wirsbo at 952-891-2000.

Uponor Wirsbo manufactures PEX tubing used in radiant floor radiant floor heating, snow and ice melting, plumbing and fire safety systems.