by Renita D. Hayes-Carter
Donor Recruitment Representative
American Red Cross Carolinas Blood Region
Winter months are tough times to collect blood and this winter hasn’t been any different.
Over 800 units were lost in January due to inclement weather and blood drive cancellations and most recently over 200 units were lost in February because of the same. At this time, the inventory remains at a very critical level with several blood types at a one day supply.
The American Red Cross relies on the willingness of donors like you to ensure that blood is available when needed. Unfortunately, people across the nation are faced with difficult economic times and may not be in a position to donate money to their favorite charity or purchase gifts for special occasions are they would normally. However, the gift of blood is free, and most importantly keeps on giving as it saves lives!
Many people give blood with the American Red Cross because they know anyone, even a member of their family, could need blood.
Whatever your reason is for giving, blood donors like you play an extremely important role. Your blood donation through the American Red Cross is vital — especially during the winter months. The supply of available blood tends to drop during this busy season, but the need for blood is constant.
This winter the Red Cross is asking donors to remember to make giving blood a part of their family routine, but it doesn’t stop there. Once you’ve set an example by giving the gift of life, we ask that you challenge friends and family to do the same by saying simply, “I Give Blood. Will You?”
You can donate blood on Tuesday, March 3, 2009, during the hours of 1:30 p.m. — 5:30 p.m. Contact Judy Currin at 430.9353 to schedule an appointment. WALK-INS ARE WELCOME AND NEEDED!
The appointments at this time are not as they should be – the goal for the drive is 25. Please help the American Red Cross collect the life saving products by scheduling an appointment and encouraging other employees to do so as well. Each donor will have an opportunity to register for one of three pairs of Delta Air Line tickets! We will also have “goodie bags” for lapsed and first time donors.
Thanks in advance for your cooperation!
To give blood, you must be at least 17 years of, weigh at least 110 pounds, feel well and be in good health. If you have given blood before, it must be at least 56 days since your last donation.