10/11/13 Outside, leaves are changing to a dazzling array of fiery red, brilliant gold and bright orange hues.
Inside the hospitals served by the Indiana-Ohio Blood Services Region of the American Red Cross, blood needs are constant for patients diagnosed with cancer and other serious illnesses; victims of automobile and other accidents; infants born prematurely; and many others.
Every two seconds, someone in the United States needs a blood transfusion. However, the average blood donor in the 52-county service area donates blood an average of only 1.6 times each year, although many individuals can donate blood as often as every 56 days.
“We need strong turnout from donors during the fall both to replenish blood supplies depleted during summer vacation season and boost supplies before the upcoming holiday season,” stated Sharyn Whitman, CEO of the Indiana-Ohio Region.
Donors of all blood types are currently needed to donate blood because all blood types are currently in great demand.
Anyone who comes to donate in October will be entered to win a $200 Visa gift card.
The upcoming Red Cross blood drive in Marshall County is Wednesday, Oct. 23, from 11:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. at St. Isidore Hall in the Hall, located at 803 W. Bike St. in Bremen.
How to donate blood
Simply call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in Indiana and Ohio), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
