Save-A-Life Tour 2003 stops in Cape County in September

What is it? It's two convoys, each with four vehicles, equipped to save lives. The American Red Cross Save-A-Life-Tour 2003 begins May 19 and concludes Nov. 16: a six-month tour across the continental United States aimed not only at recruiting three million donations of life-saving blood, but also to recognize and honor generous donors and encourage future blood donors.

Consisting of a tractor-trailer mobile museum, a bus and two vehicles used for transporting people and equipment to the site, a major highlight of the convoy is the mobile museum. Visitors to the museum will learn about the present and future donation process, and other ways they can contribute.

In addition to being stewards of half the nation's blood supply, the role of the American Red Cross in the community includes disaster relief. teaching health and safety, Armed Forces emergency services and community service to improve lives and strengthen communities.

County chosen for stop

As a result of the community's outstanding loyal commitment of blood donation, Cape Girardeau County was chosen as a two-day stop on the Save-A-Life tour. The caravan is set to arrive simultaneously with the SEMO District Fair, Sept. 6 and 7. The mobile museum will be at Westfield Shoppingtown West Park on Sept. 6 and at the fairgrounds on Sept. 7. The blood drive will take place both days at Westfield Shoppingtown West Park. Times will be announced at a later date.

The Missouri-Illinois region, the fourth largest blood collecting region in the country, strives to collect 1,200 units of blood daily. Last year over 300,000 units were donated in this region.

The American Red Cross Save-A-LIfe-Tour 2003 kicks off in Los Angeles, California and will include major celebrities. The tour finale will conclude with both convoys arriving in Washington, D.C., greeted by celebrities and VIPs.

The American Red Cross, at the forefront of change in the industry, states that one person's donation can save up to three lives through use of the components of whole blood, plasma and platelets.