Last month Jay Lewis, who has been performing and working in the Cleburne Area since the 80’s, contracted COVID-19. After a stay in the ICU he is now recovering at home. While waiting for plasma with COVID-19 antibodies we all learned that our local blood supply is very low. Summer is normally a challenging time for the blood supply. These challenges have multiplied during this unique time of social distancing, canceled company and school blood drives, and other rapidly changing conditions. In Jay Lewis honor Plaza Theatre Company staff and volunteers with Carter Bloodcare are holding hold a blood drive at Plaza Theatre Company at Dudley Hall on Sept. 4 & 5th during the day. The Carter Bloodcare staff will be set up inside the theatre building in multiple rooms and able to handle 50 people each day. We have set a goal for 100 donations. Please come and show your support and help the many out there that rely on blood donations during this time of shortage. To sign up for a time on Sept 4: https://ww3.greatpartners.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/116398 To sign up for a time on Sept 5: https://ww3.greatpartners.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/116399 FAQ: 1. Can I donate plasma at this event? Carter Bloodcare only has a few designated donation sites for plasma. Visit carterbloodcare.org for more information. 2. Do they test for COVID-19? Carter Bloodcare will do an antibody test for COVID-19 which will show if you had the disease in the past but is not the same as a diagnostic test for an acute infection. The antibody test is free to all who donate blood. 3. Can I donate if I feel sick? No. Donors are required to feel well and healthy at the time of donation. 4. Do I have to schedule in advance? No, but Carter Bloodcare strongly suggests you do so that they can have the proper resources allocated to serve you the best. Also, registering in advance allows you to fill out the paperwork required in the comfort of your home instead of while waiting.