By WHITNEE ICE
St. Joseph Post
The American Red Cross and actor James Van Der Beek encourage Americans to make this summer full of life by giving blood.
Springs says you might even recognize James Van Der Beek’s name from a couple of his more popular roles.
“He’s really best known for being in Dawson’s Creek and that is something that he is known for as well as Varsity Blue so if you’ve seen those you have seen James Van Der Beek,” Springs tells St. Joseph Post.
Springs says the Van Der Beek family became passionate about blood donations and The American Red Cross after James Van Der Beek’s wife had traumatic pregnancy losses and needed blood.
With the theme for this year's blood drive being “Summer full of Life,” Springs says they want to ensure everyone’s safety at the blood drives.
“When you come to a Red Cross blood drive, you’ll be asked to wear a mask the entire time.” says Springs. “We have hand sanitizing stations there of course. We will make sure you are socially distanced.”
Springs says the Red Cross tests all of the blood donations for COVID-19 antibodies.
“It doesn’t take a lot of time, it’s simple and you know that potentially if you have those antibodies present that you could go on to help further with this fight against COVID-19,” says Springs.
Those who donate during May 28th to June 13th will receive a limited-edition T-shirt, while supplies lasts.