Blood Donors Needed

Blood and blood product supplies are down as a result of the recent storms. As of the 10th of February, the American Red Cross has an overall supply of only 1.7-days for all blood types for the more than 100 hospitals in the Penn-Jersey region. Blood supplies continue to drop and are now at critical levels. A two-day supply is the safe minimal level. The optimal level is a five-day supply.

“We have less than a one-day supply of type O-negative available. Type O-negative is especially needed because it is the universal blood type and can be safely given to most patients to treat emergency and pediatric patients. Platelets are also needed. Patient care this week depends on blood donors who give blood today,” says the Penn-Jersey Red Cross. This is the organization that helps provide blood for our area.

There is always a need for blood. Everyday, hospitals continue to care for patients who face serious medical problems. By giving blood now, you are making sure this precious gift is on-hand for the patients who need your help to survive an accident or illness. We all depend on this perishable resource to be available. Blood is an emergency medicine and must always be available every day of the year.

It’s not difficult to donate. It takes a little time and the willingness to help. By giving blood, you can give the gift of life to someone in desperate need.

Who can donate? Anyone who is in good health, is at least 18 years old (persons 16 or 17 years old may be able to donate with a consent form signed by a legal guardian), and weighs at least 110 pounds may donate blood every 56 days. Some health conditions or medications may temporarily or permanently prevent persons from donating blood. Other possible restrictions include recent body piercings or recent tattoos. You cannot get AIDS from donating blood. Only sterile, disposable equipment is used throughout the donation process.

If you would like to help, please call 1-800-GIVE LIFE or click here to find out where you can give blood.

For information about Red Cross chapters in your area, click here. For links to Red Cross chapters, click here.

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Author: R. Cohen