Dear Editor,
September is National Preparedness Month, a time for Americans to prepare for disasters of all types, including personal ones that require blood transfusions. By giving blood through the American Red Cross, eligible donors can ensure blood is ready and available when any disaster strikes.
Currently, eligible donors of all blood types are needed for the Red Cross to readily meet hospital and patient needs. Eligible donors with the most in-demand and often short supply blood types - 0 negative, 0 positive, A negative and B negative - are especially encouraged to give. Donors who gave blood at the start of summer may now be eligible to donate again as summer comes to a close.
It can take up to three days for donated blood to be tested, processed and made available for patients. It’s the blood on the shelves when a disaster or emergency strikes that saves the day. Help the Red Cross ensure an adequate blood supply by making an appointment to donate blood.
Blood donation opportunities: Great Bend Community Blood Drive; Monday, September 17th from 11:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.; St. Rose Auditorium, 1412 Baker St.
To donate Blood simply call1-800-RED CROSS (l-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.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. Individuals who are l7 years of age (l6 with parental permission in Kansas), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors l8 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies more than 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or join our blog at http://blog.redcross.org.
Corry Herrman
Bloodrive Cordinator