PharmOptimist schreef op 13 augustus 2017 21:53:
Amerikaanse rode kruis smeekbede bloeddonoren...
Red Cross puts out call for blood donors this month
Staff reports Published 11:03 a.m. PT Aug. 11, 2017
When school gets out, many people think about summer vacations. They often don't think about donating blood.
That leads every summer to shortages of blood, said Christine Welch, communications manager for the Red Cross.
She explained the Red Cross often holds donation events on college campuses but that stops when the students leave for the summer. Other regular donors may be traveling.
"We generally experience a shortage during the summer, but this year it has been especially bad," Welch said.
Currently, there is a national shortage of 61,000 donors, which translates to a four-day supply of blood, Welch said.
The Red Cross has planned a number of donation events at various sites throughout the county this month to help address that shortage.
Those who donate blood or platelets now through Aug. 31 will get a $5 gift card from Target via email.
Potential donors are asked to make an appointment and complete the RapidPass Online health history questionnaire at redcrossblood.org/RapidPass to cut down on wait times.
Donors can safely give blood every 56 days and power red cells can be donated every 112 days, according to the Red Cross. All types of blood are needed.
Donations of power red are similar to a whole blood donation, except a special machine is used to allow donors to safely give two units of red blood cells during one donation while returning to them their own plasma and platelets, according to the Red Cross.
Appointments can be scheduled by downloading the free Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 800-733-2767.
The Red Cross is also looking for area businesses and groups to partner with for donation events.
About 80 percent of blood donations made to the Red Cross come through blood drives set up by community organizations, groups and businesses.
To become a community partner by hosting a Red Cross blood drive, visit redcrossblood.org for more information.
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