The Battle of the Banks blood drive saves lives and promotes Sulphur's recovery

SULPHUR, Okla. (KXII) – Derrick Turner of the Oklahoma Blood Institute says there are many reasons to donate blood. It can be lifesaving for someone in need, and it can keep you healthy too.

“You’re helping at least three lives with every unit you donate, well, actually you’re helping four, because you’re helping yourself too,” Turner said. “You reduce your chances of potentially getting cancer by removing those old cells from your body,” he added.

And by donating at the Battle of the Banks blood drive, you can help the Sulfur community recover after April’s tornado, which left many homes and businesses in ruins.

“For every donor after we reach 30, we get $15 that goes into the long-term recovery fund for Sulfur,” said Katie Barnard of BancFirst in Sulfur.

Donor Gary Parker says he donates blood every chance he gets.

“It could be your family that needs it, so maybe if I do my part now, and if someone in my family needs it, maybe it can be answered,” Parker said.

Parker says he saw the tornado’s impact on Sulfur firsthand and many families are still recovering.

“I’ve worked on a lot of houses after the tornado, and anything that helps these people is a blessing,” Parker said.

Where every donation counts towards recovery efforts for tornado victims, saves lives and can also win prizes.

“Thanks to United Way, we are also giving away free baked pies from Arbuckle Mountain, a free turkey for every donor thanks to INCA Community Services, and a chance to win a YETI cooler,” Barnard added.