Summer has always been one of the most difficult times for blood donations, and this season has been no different.
In fact, it has worsened since our region has experienced some of the most extreme weather conditions since Jan. 1. Cold, snow, ice, rain, floods, tornadoes, humidity and heat waves have slowed donor turnout at blood drives.
Even with the national appeal for blood which began in July, donations have not increased in our region to a comfortable point. Blood levels still remain at critically low conditions. The need for blood is constant. The need for blood is now.
The American Red Cross Blood Services Northeastern Pennsylvania Region knows how busy (and expensive) the month of August can be with preparing for the return of school and getting settled into the end-of-vacation routine. To help alleviate some of that stress, presenting donors can enter to win one of two $250 VISA gift cards to be given away in the month of August. Additionally, presenting donors will receive a coupon for a free box of six pieces of chocolate dipped fruit from Edible Arrangements.
Every two seconds, someone in the United States needs blood. The Red Cross Blood Services Northeastern Pennsylvania Region provides lifesaving blood to 29 hospitals and needs 351 people to give blood and platelets each weekday to meet hospital demand. Accident victims as well as patients with cancer, sickle cell disease, blood disorders and other illnesses receive lifesaving transfusions every day. There is no substitute for blood and volunteer donors are the only source.
Governed by volunteers and supported by giving individuals and communities, the American Red Cross has been the single largest supplier of blood products to hospitals throughout the United States for more than 50 years. While local hospital needs are always met first, the Red Cross also helps ensure that no patient goes without blood no matter where or when they need it.
The American Red Cross Blood Services - Northeast Division must distribute approximately 3,000 units of blood each day just to meet the basic needs of area patients.
In addition to providing nearly half of the nation's blood supply, the Red Cross provides relief to victims of disaster, trains millions in lifesaving skills, serves as a communication link between U.S. military members and their families, and assists victims of international disasters or conflicts.
Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental permission in PA), meet weight and height requirements (110 pounds or more, depending on their height) and are in generally good health may be eligible to give blood. Positive identification is required at the time of donation.
Eligible volunteer blood donors are asked to please call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to find a blood drive and to make an appointment.
