07/13/11  America’s blood supply is an important piece of our country’s ability to respond to disasters. By donating blood, people can help prepare for the unexpected and help ensure blood is available when and where it’s needed.

“Any disaster, man-made or natural, can result in people being injured and needing blood,” said Sharyn Whitman, CEO for the Indiana-Ohio Blood Services Region of the American Red Cross. “While people often join together to help after a disaster, it’s just as important to be organized and prepared today for when disaster strikes.”

Making an appointment to donate blood during Disaster Education and Awareness Month this July is one way to help prepare for the unexpected. Another is to talk to friends and family about the importance of giving blood. A third is to consider volunteering at or sponsoring an American Red Cross blood drive.

Every day, hospitals need more than 39,000 blood donations for the care of serious diseases, accidents or trauma. And when disaster strikes, the need can be greater, depending on the severity and scope.

The Red Cross has the unique ability to move blood around the country through its National Inventory Management System, which helps meet patient need during times of disaster or shortages.

“Your blood donations through the American Red Cross help build a blood supply strong enough to meet everyday and emergency medical needs,” said Whitman. “It’s blood on the shelves today that helps save lives.”

Come to donate from June 1 through September 11 and be entered into a region-wide drawing to win free gas for a year ($3,000 gift card)!

UPCOMING AMERICAN RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVES IN YOUR AREA:

  • Thursday, July 21, from 11:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus in the Hall, located at 901 E. Jefferson St. in Plymouth.

How to Donate Blood

To schedule an appointment to donate please call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org for more information. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental permission in some states), meet weight and height requirements (110 pounds or more, depending on their height) and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood.  Please bring your Red Cross blood donor card or other form of positive ID when you come to donate.

About the American Red Cross

The Indiana-Ohio Blood Services Region serves northern and central Indiana and northwestern Ohio, and needs to collect about 500 units of blood a day to meet patient need in more than 60 hospitals.  In addition to providing blood to our community, the American Red Cross also 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 or conflicts.

The need is constant. The gratification is instant. Give blood. ™