Efforts to replenish critically low blood supplies across the 100-county Greater Alleghenies Region of American Red Cross Blood Services continue this week, even as regional officials prepare for another winter storm.
The winter weather and upcoming forecast have prompted American Red Cross officials to continue to urge area residents to donate blood at the organization’s upcoming blood drives.
There is a blood drive scheduled in Tyrone tomorrow at Epworth Manor from noon to 5:30 p.m.
While this may be short notice, individuals are always able to visit the Red Cross Blood Donor Center, located at 317 East Pleasant Valley Blvd., Altoona, each Tuesday from noon to 6 p.m. Individuals can also schedule an appointment by calling 1-800-Give-Life (1-800-448-3543).
Giving blood takes very little time. Although about 60 percent of the people in America are eligible to donate blood, only five percent do.
Anyone at least 17-years-of-age, weighing 110 pounds or more and feeling in good health may be eligible to donate blood.
Individuals with donor eligibility questions should call the nursing collections office at 1-800-542-5663.
According to Jim Starr, regional CEO, as of yesterday morning the region had less than a day’s supply of type O negative, A negative and B negative blood available to support nearly 100 hospitals. Inventories of most blood types are below a two-day supply. A week’s supply of all blood types is desired.
“March is National Red Cross Month and we’re looking for many ‘hometown heroes’ to come forward and help those in need by donating blood,” said Starr.
Last month, the region experienced weather-related cancellations representing nearly two collection days, or nearly 2,000 blood donations.
The blood region, which serves nearly 100 hospitals, has a collection goal of 1,000 unites per weekday and a couple hundred each weekend.
“When a patient needs transfusions, the blood products – red blood cells, platelets and plasma – must be readily available. Every two seconds, someone needs a blood transfusion, and it’s too late to recruit donors when the need arises,” Starr said.
He explained that the weather has also strained the region’s supply of platelets, a product often needed by patients with cancer, leukemia and other serious illnesses.
“We’re also calling upon those who give platelets at our donor centers in Altoona, Beaver, Greensburg, Johnstown and State College to make an appointment to donate and make every effort to keep appointments already scheduled,” he noted.
