AhlulBayt News Agency

source :
Saturday

9 November 2013

5:17:00 AM
479435

Muharram in Unted States;

Muslim community to host annual 'Karbala blood drive' in Dallas - Texas

The Shia Muslim community in the Dallas-Fort Worth area this week hosts blood drives on three dates and in three locations in hopes of maximizing the numbers of community members who can make a blood donation with Carter BloodCare during the Karbala Blood Donation Campaign.

(Ahlul Bayt News Agency) - Third annual blood drive encourages giving to greater community

The Shia Muslim community in the Dallas-Fort Worth area this week hosts blood drives on three dates and in three locations in hopes of maximizing the numbers of community members who can make a blood donation with Carter BloodCare during the Karbala Blood Donation Campaign.

The timing of the blood drives coincides with the annual 10-day remembrance of the Battle of Karbala, during which Muslims reflect on the tragedies endured by Hussein [the son of] Ali, grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was killed for standing up against tyranny in support of justice and equality. Blood drive coordinators say that Muslims are inspired by Hussein’s sacrifice and give blood for the good of the community.

November is the month that begins the American holiday season. Historically, blood centers around the country experience a pattern of decreased frequency of blood donation, even among regular donors, as families get busy with holiday activities. The blood collected during the Karbala Blood Drive is helpful at this time of year. Carter BloodCare needs at least 1,100 donors every day to meet the community needs.

Potential blood donors from three different mosques across the area are encouraged to give blood. The men in each congregation will pray and cook meals in preparation for the blood drive. The drive comes during the month of Muharram – when the Battle of Karbala took place. It is also the first month in the Islamic Lunar calendar.

EVENT DETAILS:
Friday, Nov. 8th, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Iilm Center
2101 W. Plano Parkway
Plano, Texas 75075
Contact: Hajj Haidar Zalghout, (469) 386-5775

Saturday, Nov. 9th, 6 to 11 p.m.
Momin Center
1019 Perry St.
Irving, Texas 75060
Contact: Dr. Hussain Abbas, (972) 741-0812

Sunday, Nov. 10th, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Imam Ali Islamic Center
2330 Dalworth St.
Grand Prairie, Texas 75050
Contacts: Br. Hussain Alkhafaji, (817) 818-0908
Br. Haidar Qasim, (817) 420-3782

Potential blood donors can volunteer beginning at age 16 with a parent’s consent, and 17-year-olds can give independently. There is no upper age limit for giving. All donors must weigh at least 110 pounds, be in good general health and present a photo ID each time they give. It’s also a good idea to eat a nutritious meal and drink plenty of water before giving blood. For more information about donor eligibility and to make an appointment, call Carter BloodCare at 1-800-366-2834 or visit carterbloodcare.org.

/129