03/28/13 This winter has been particularly harsh, impacting a large portion of the country causing a significant number of blood drive cancellations and impacting our blood supply. Since the beginning of February, winter weather has forced the cancellation of over 425 American Red Cross blood drives, resulting in a shortfall of more than 16,000 blood donations through the Red Cross. 

These losses mean that potentially 48,000 hospital patients could have been impacted. Eligible donors are encouraged to give lifesaving blood to help offset the current shortfall and ensure a stable supply. All blood types are currently needed, especially O negative, B negative and A negative. Rh-negative blood types can be transfused to both Rh-positive and Rh-negative patients. Type O negative blood is universal and can potentially be transfused to patients with any blood type.

Here are just a few examples of patients who received blood products donated through the American Red Cross:

  • A new mother received 32 units of red blood cells, 15 units of cryoprecipitate, 10 units of platelets and 10 units of plasma after complications from childbirth.
  • A patient undergoing a cyst removal received 60 units of red blood cells and 9 units of platelets.
  • A kidney transplant patient received 30 units of red blood cells and 40 units of plasma.

It is the blood on the shelves today that are available for patients tomorrow. To schedule an appointment, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or go to redcrossblood.org to find a blood drive opportunity near you.

UPCOMING AMERICAN RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVES IN OUR AREA INCLUDE:

  • Thursday, March 28, 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.  Come to donate and receive a Red Cross pin and a coupon for a free taco courtesy of Taco Bell! 

How to Donate Blood

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.