Blood Drive August 10, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.  Did You Know? The most common reason some are deferred from donating on a particular day is low hemoglobin. Iron helps red blood cells carry oxygen to tissues. While iron is naturally replenished, you may need an iron supplement prior to donation, especially if you donate often. More tips from Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center can be found at www.giveblood.org. Our next Blood Drive is October 12th.