The American Red Cross urges eligible donors to give the perfect gift this holiday season— a life-saving blood or platelet donation. By rolling up a sleeve, donors can help ensure patients continue to receive treatment throughout the holiday season.
Busy holiday schedules and travel plans make it more challenging for regular donors to give, and many businesses and organizations postpone hosting blood drives during the holiday season for these same reasons, says the Red Cross. This can lead to a decline in blood donations, but the need is constant.
“While many of us gather with friends and family this time of year, patients may spend the holidays in a hospital room,” said Nick Gehrig, communications director for Red Cross Blood Services. “The need for blood doesn’t take a break for the holidays. Please make an appointment to give the most meaningful gift of all— the gift of life through a blood or platelet donation.”
Blood donors with type O, B negative and A negative blood can help more patients with one appointment by making a Power Red donation at select Red Cross blood donation centers and blood drives. Power Red donors give a concentrated dose of red blood cells— the most commonly transfused blood component. Red blood cells carry oxygen throughout the body and are frequently given to trauma and surgery patients. During a Power Red donation, red blood cells are separated from other blood components, and plasma and platelets are then safely and comfortably returned to the donor, according to the Red Cross.
“With just a little extra time at their appointment, donors can have an even greater impact on patients in need,” Gehrig said.
Upcoming blood-donation opportunities:
Sunday, Dec. 4 from 8:30am to 2:30pm— Bethany Lutheran Church, 4644 Clark Avenue
Friday, Dec. 9 from 11am to 5pm— Sam’s Club Long Beach Towne Center, 9480 Carson St.
Monday, Dec. 12 from 8am to 8pm— St Mary Medical Center, 1050 Linden Ave
Monday, Dec. 12 from 1:30pm to 7:30pm— Cubberley Elementary School, 3200 Monogram
Tuesday, Dec. 13 from 9am to 3pm— North West College, 3799 E. Burnett St.
Thursday, Dec. 15 from noon to 6pm— Prisk Elementary School, 2375 Fanwood Ave.
Source: American Red Cross
