A long time Caye Caulker resident is gravely ill in the hospital in Belize City. Tom Brown needs a blood transfusion. PLEASE anyone that can donate blood go to KHMH, it will be greatly appreciated. He needs this NOW but the hospital needs blood. Thanks in advance.

Any idea what blood type he is? Do they need the same blood type or will any type to to replenish the blood bank?

Tom is O positive but they need any type to replenish the blood bank. Thanks so much for any help.

I got this information from the San Pedro Sun:

There is a big blood drive on Ambergris Caye soon - September 4th from 9am. The location is next to El Torito and Island Adventures - right in town. Blood can only be stored for a short period of time which is why the hospitals need a constant supply of fresh donations. A healthy adult can donate a pint quite easily and the body makes more over a short period of time.

Donors must be between the ages of 18 - 65 years.
You must eat an adequate size meal prior to making the donation.
Your last donation must have been at least 3 months prior to donating.
Your latest tatoos must be at least a year old.
Menstruation must have stopped at least a week prior to donating.
It must have been a year since your last major surgery, transfusion of blood, pregnancy or miscarriage.
You must wait 2 years after your last malaria infection.
You cannot donate blood if you have HIV, AIDS, if you have had hepatitis over the age of 11 years, asthma, hypertension, diabetes, heart disease or if you are presently ill.

I'm allergic to Penicillin and that stopped me giving blood a couple of years ago. Back then they didn't have the capability to test the blood for the allergies so refused it. Not sure if other allergies stop donation too or if it is still the case.

I don't think that the list is absolutely complete. If you are anemic you can't donate and there are a number of other viruses, illnesses and diseases that could prevent your ability to donate.

I hope that Tom Brown gets his transfusions in time.

Thanks to anyone who donated blood. Tom received his transfusion and is doing better.

These are standard reasons for being unable to donate everywhere. Allergies are not, and I posted it for info for those unaware and also to see if it is still the case.

That is good news.

Hi CayeMarie, How is Tom doing? If this is the Tom that used to own the Sand Box Restaurant, we rented one of his apartments a couple years ago. Very nice man. We may come back for a visit this winter and hoping he is well.
Norwin