Take some time to help save a life during Bloodmobiles

Talk about it

As the days get shorter and the to-do lists get longer, the American Red Cross asks eligible individuals to add one more item to that list: donate blood. By adding this one item to your list, you could save up to three lives this holiday season.

With the holidays, travel plans and inclement weather in some parts of the country, you local Red Cross experiences as much as a five percent drop in blood donations during the holiday season. It is important that eligible individuals take the time to make an appointment to donate blood now.

“Giving blood only takes about an hour. Taking the time to donate can give you a chance to rest and recharge in the Red Cross refreshment area before heading off to tackle the rest of the items on your to-do list,” said Dr. David Mair, interim CEO of the local Red Cross Blood Services North Central Region. “It’s important that people take the time to donate blood this holiday season to help ensure a stable blood supply.”

Recipients of blood products are not able to take a holiday from needing lifesaving blood. They are in constant need of a healthy blood supply. Please make the time to give blood this holiday season and change a life, starting with your own.

Upcoming Blood Donation Opportunities

Dec. 1 - 1-7 p.m. St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, 1500 Vine St., Hudson

Dec. 8 - 1-6 p.m. Zion Lutheran Church, 221 N. Lockwood St., Woodville

Dec. 10 - 1-6 p.m. American Legion, 1260 Wall St., New Richmond

How to Donate Blood

Simply call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE (1-800-448-3543) or visit givebloodgivelife.org to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license, or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Eligible donors must be at least 17 years old, or 16 years old with a signed Red Cross parental/guardian consent form where state permits, must weigh at least 110 pounds and be in general good health.

Governed by volunteers and supported by giving individuals and communities, the American Red Cross is the single largest supplier of blood products to hospitals throughout the United States. While local hospital needs are always met first, the Red Cross also helps ensure no patient goes without blood no matter where or when they need it. In addition to providing nearly half of the nation’s blood supply, the Red Cross provides relief to victims of disaster, trains millions in lifesaving skills, serves as a communication link between U.S. military members and their families, and assists victims of international disasters.

Tags: community, bloodmobile