The American Red Cross says winter storms have taken a toll on an already severe blood supply shortage.
According to the Red Cross, more than 500 blood drives were cancelled due to the winter weather, resulting in more than 20,000 blood and platelet donations going uncollected since January 23. That goes on top of the more than 400 blood drives that were cancelled the previous month due to winter weather.
The Red Cross encourages anybody who can safely travel to schedule an appointment to donate blood or platelets. Keeping donations going at this time will help ensure lifesaving medical procedures are not delayed.
Red Cross Account Manager Tammy Ritchie says the need for Type O donors is urgent.
“The need for Type O, O-positive and O-negative, is in an emergency need right now,” said Ritchie. “Transfusions are happening when needed, but because that is the most common blood type, it is also the most needed, and in an emergency situation, that is what’s going to be transfused until we know that patient’s blood type.”
As an added incentive, donors between now and February 28 will receive a $20 e-gift card to the merchant of their choice. Visit www.redcrossblood.org for more information on donating and to find a blood drive near you.