American Red Cross in critical need for blood donations

The American Red Cross currently has a critical need for blood donors of all blood types, especially type O, and platelet donors to make an appointment now to give and help replenish the blood supply after the holidays.

Right now, the Red Cross has less than a three-day supply of type O blood, explains Paul Sullivan, senior vice president, Red Cross Biomedical Services.

Sullivan tells WNEG News that blood donations are needed to help replenish the blood supply after the holiday weeks when busy schedules resulted in fewer donations than needed.

He says you can help ensure patients continue to receive life-saving medical treatments and emergency care, by giving blood now.

Use the Blood Donor App, visit red-cross-blood-dot-org or call 1-800-RED CROSS to make an appointment today.

During the weeks of Christmas and New Year’s, about 500 fewer blood drives were hosted by volunteer sponsor groups than required to meet patient needs.

Many groups postpone blood drives during the winter holidays when travel and holiday activities may make it challenging for many donors to give.

However, lifesaving medical treatments and emergencies never take a holiday.

Declines in donations can affect patient care.

That’s why the Red Cross is encouraging eligible donors to make an appointment to give now and help those suffering from illness and trauma.