Giving is up, but Red Cross still seeks blood donors

by Daily Inter Lake
| August 10, 2012 6:33 AM

The American Red Cross announced Tuesday a boost in donations since the organization issued an emergency appeal for blood donors in June. However, the organization needs additional donations for an adequate supply through the summer.

“We are humbled by the generosity of the many blood donors in Montana who responded to our appeal, helping to save lives,” said Carmen Madsen, donor recruitment manager for the Red Cross in Montana. “Our blood donors truly do this out of the goodness of their hearts.”

Across the country, nearly 15,000 donations have been given above expectations since the Red Cross first issued its appeal, cutting the blood donation deficit by approximately 30 percent to date. To keep up the momentum, the organization encourages anyone who has not yet given blood this summer to schedule an appointment and bring two friends or family members along with them.

Although blood donations increased, the situation remains tenuous with more donors needed in the coming weeks. If three additional people give at each blood drive through the end of August — above what the Red Cross already expects to collect — there would be enough blood on the shelves to meet patient needs through the end of the summer.

Donors of all blood types are needed, but eligible donors with blood type O negative, O positive, A negative or B negative are especially encouraged to give at this time. Anyone who gave blood at the start of summer may be eligible to donate again as summer comes to a close.

Call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients.

A person needs to show a blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification at check-in. Donors must be 17 (16 with parental permission in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and be in generally good health. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also must meet certain height and weight requirements.

A not-for-profit organization, the American Red Cross supplies more than 40 percent of the nation’s blood. For more information, visit redcrossblood.org.