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The American Red Cross blood drive hosted by Bridge Community Church on Thursday collected 32 pints of blood. Brenda Wyant of Glenville finished donating her sixth gallon of blood, and Brenda Blanshan of Albert Lea completed donating her 15th gallon.

Unusual is the fact that almost one fourth of those who came to donate were deferred because of low hemoglobin levels in their blood. Healthy iron levels are important for overall health, physical and mental development, and help to maintain strength and energy. Ways to raise one’s hemoglobin are to consume foods that are rich in iron and vitamin C. For some people it is necessary to take Iron supplements or a multi-vitamin which contains at least 18 milligrams of iron.