URGENT APPEAL FOR BLOOD DONATIONS FROM THE AMERICAN RED CROSS
January 30, 2014
Since the beginning of January, winter storms and freezing temperatures have resulted in more than 500 American Red Cross blood drive cancellations and nearly 16,000 uncollected blood and platelet donations. Overall, 26 states and Washington , D.C. have had blood drives canceled because of weather. The latest round of severe winter weather alone has forced the cancellation of more than 200 additional Red Cross blood drives, with more cancellations expected as parts of the Deep South are hit with snow and ice.
Right now, blood products are being distributed to hospitals as quickly as donations are coming in. Eligible donors with all blood types are needed now to help restock Red Cross shelves. While thousands of people from across the country responded to the call for blood and platelet donations issued earlier this month, there continues to be an urgent need for blood donors with type O, especially type O negative. Because of these cancellations, the American Red Cross is currently under an “Urgent Need” appeal. You assistance in encouraging donors to make and keep their appointments for upcoming blood drive is very much appreciated.
Appointments are encouraged and can be made by calling 1-800-RedCross or go to www.RedCrossBlood.org.
Remember in our Martinsville Henry County area, Blood donations can be given at the Holiday Shopping Center, 1910 Virginia Ave, Collinsville, VA--every Thursday Noon to 6pm and in Patrick County at Rotary Field 12:30pm to 6:30pm on the first Tuesday of each month.
