CHARLOTTE — Just as most cars need to be refueled constantly, so does the nation’s blood supply. The American Red Cross has faced a concerning drop in blood and platelet donations this summer. Donors are needed to make an appointment to give in August to help prevent a blood shortage.
The decline in donations has caused the Red Cross blood supply to shrink nearly 20% in recent weeks. The availability of blood products will continue to decline if donations do not increase. People should not wait until they hear there is a blood shortage to give. Type O negative blood donors and platelet donors are especially needed now.
“This is a concerning trend that may soon make it tougher to keep blood products stocked on hospital shelves,” said Paul Sullivan, Red Cross senior vice president of donor services. “By choosing a time to give now, donors can help pump up the blood supply for those in immediate need of lifesaving care and those who rely on transfusions for treatment.”
Fuel up on us
As blood and platelet donations drop, gas prices have reached all-time highs in the U.S. As a thank-you, all who come to give in August will be automatically entered for a chance to win gas for a year — a $6,000 value. There will be three lucky winners. Everyone who comes to give blood or platelets in August will also receive a $10 e-gift card to a merchant of choice. Visit rcblood.org/fuel for details.
Local drives
There are three local rives scheduled int he next week:
• Aug. 5, 2-6:30 p.m., Church of Good Shepherd, 1005 University Drive, Lancaster
• Aug. 8, 2:30-7 p.m., White Springs Baptist Church, 1249 Grace Ave., Lancaster
• Aug. 9, 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m., USCL James Bradley Arts & Sciences Building, 476 Hubbard Drive, Lancaster
Donors can schedule an appointment to donate using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting RedCrossBlood.org or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
