July 6, 2013
07/08/13 America’s blood supply is an important piece of our country’s ability to respond to disasters. By donating blood, people can help prepare for the unexpected and help ensure blood is available when and where it’s needed.
“Any disaster, man-made or natural, can result in people being injured and needing blood,” said Sharyn Whitman, CEO for the Indiana-Ohio Blood Services Region of the American Red Cross. “While people often join together to help after a disaster, it’s just as important to be organized and prepared today for when disaster strikes.”
Making an appointment to donate blood during Disaster Education and Awareness Month this July is one way to help prepare for the unexpected. Another is to talk to friends and family about the importance of giving blood. A third is to consider volunteering at or sponsoring an American Red Cross blood drive.
Every day, hospitals need more than 39,000 blood donations for the care of serious diseases, accidents or trauma. And when disaster strikes, the need can be greater, depending on the severity and scope.
“Your blood donations through the American Red Cross help build a blood supply strong enough to meet everyday and emergency medical needs,” said Whitman. “It’s blood on the shelves today that helps save lives.”
Upcoming American Red Cross Blood Drives in our area are”
· Tuesday, July 16, from noon until 5:30 p.m. at Argos United Methodist Church in the Fellowship Hall, located at 540 N. Michigan St. in Argos.
· Thursday, July 18, from 11:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus in the Hall, located at 901 E. Jefferson St. in Plymouth.
· Saturday, July 27, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at Wal-Mart, located at 2505 N. Oak Road in Plymouth.
To schedule an appointment to donate please call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org for more information. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental permission in Indiana and Ohio), meet weight and height requirements (110 pounds or more, depending on their height) and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. Please bring your Red Cross blood donor card or other form of positive ID when you come to donate.