The American Red Cross reports that bad weather over the past few days has resulted in more than 2,700 units of blood not being collected due to blood donation center closures, canceled blood drives and the inability of donors to attend blood drives.
Donors are encouraged to donate as soon as weather and travel conditions permit. There is a special need for type O and type B blood donors.
ěAlthough the winter weather has been challenging, the Red Cross is working diligently to meet the needs of patients in our hospitals,î said Joyce H. Brendel, chief executive officer of the American Red Cross Carolinas Blood Services Region.
ěWe are counting on generous blood donors to make sure that the blood supply is at an adequate level to continue to meet patientsí needs.î
The American Red Cross Carolina Blood Services Region provides lifesaving blood to 103 hospitals and must have 1,600 people give blood and platelets each weekday to meet hospital demand. Blood can be safely donated every 56 days. Platelets can be given safely every two weeks, up to 24 times a year.
Most healthy people age 17 and older, or 16 with parental consent, who weigh at least 110 pounds, are eligible to donate blood and platelets. Donors who are 18 and younger must also meet specific height and weight requirements.
To schedule an appointment or locate a nearby blood donation opportunity, call 704-633-3854 or visit redcrossblood. org.