Red Cross Issues Call for Blood Donations

By Charlie  Bauder, WNEG Radio, Toccoa

With the winter season approaching, the American Red Cross is issuing a call for blood donations.

Red Cross Spokesperson Kristin Stancil said that this is a time of the year when historically, the blood supply decreases, while demand remains the same.

“During the winter months, starting in November and going to January, we see fewer donors because people get really busy with holiday activities and holiday shopping,” said Stancil.  “However, the need for blood continues.”

Stancil said the Red Cross currently needs all types of blood donated.  However, she said that the Red Cross is always in particular need of Type O Negative blood.

“O Negative is the universal blood type,” said Stancil.  “That blood type can be transfused to any person no matter their blood type in an emergency, so that is the number one blood types requested by hospitals.”

Through January 6, the American Red Cross is running its winter campaign.

This year, Stancil said the campaign is entitled “Give Something That Means Something.”

“We ask eligible donors to give something meaningful this holiday season,” said Stancil.  “It takes a little over an hour and you can help save three lives with one donation.”

Stancil said giving blood is easy and adds that someone can donate blood every 56 days.  She did say that there are some basic requirements that a person must meet before they can donate blood.

“You must be 17 years of age, or 16 with parental consent, you must weigh 110 pounds and be in good health,” said Stancil.

For more information on donating blood or donation sites, call the American Red Cross at 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or go online towww.redcrossblood.org.