Red Cross Seeking Blood Donations

h the holiday season now in full swing, the American Red Cross is issuing a call for blood and platlet donations.

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

Stancil said, “Well during the Winter months starting in November and going to January, we see fewer donors because people get really busy with seasonal activities and holiday shopping and celebrating the holidays.  So we see fewer donors.  However the need for blood still continues ”

Stancil says the Red Cross currently needs all types of blood donated.

However, she says that the Red Cross is always in particular need of Type O Negative blood.

Stancil said, “O-negative is the universal blood type, so that means your blood can be transfused to any patient no matter what their blood type is in an emergency.  So that is always the number one blood type requested by hospitals because they know they can use it very quickly.  So if your O-negative consider making a blood donation”

Stancil says giving blood is easy and adds that someone can donate blood every 56 days.

She does say that there are some basic requirements that a person must meet before they can donate blood.

Stancil said, “The requirements are that you must be at least 17 years of age or 16 with parental consent.  You must weigh 110 pounds and be in good health.  So if you’re feeling well that day, definitely come in and see us.  And if you’re not feeling so well, give yourself some a little bit of time to get better”

For more information on donating blood or donation sites, call the American Red Cross at 1-800-red-cross) or go online to www.redcrossblood.org.