The critical blood shortage issued by the American Red Cross last week continues to affect the Tennessee Valley. Donors of all blood types are needed now and are asked to donate this Wednesday, Aug. 10.
Many donors are busy or traveling, school is out of session, and donations in May and June dropped to the lowest levels the Red Cross has seen during this time frame in over a dozen years. Demand for blood remained steady during the same period, which is why the Red Cross needs people more than ever to roll up a sleeve and give as soon as possible. All types are needed, but especially O negative, which can be used to treat any patient.
The Red Cross Tennessee Valley Blood Services Region provides life-saving blood to 57 hospitals and must have 600 people give blood and platelets each weekday to meet hospital demand. Accident victims, as well as patients with cancer, sickle cell disease, blood disorders and other illnesses receive life-saving transfusions every day. There is no substitute for blood and volunteer donors are the only source.
Locally, you may give blood Wednesday from 1-6 p.m. at McMinnville Civic Center.
As an extra incentive this summer, anyone who presents to donate blood with the Red Cross between July 1 and Sept. 5 is automatically entered into a drawing for a $250 gas card. On Labor Day weekend, anyone presenting to donate Friday through Monday is automatically entered into a drawing for a $1,000 gas card.
Plus, anyone who presents to donate blood from May 25 through Sept. 14 is automatically entered into the Red Cross Racing “Summer Drive Sweepstakes” to win a brand new 2012 red candy metallic Ford Fiesta SE, courtesy of Ford Motor Company. One winner is selected by random drawing Sept. 19.
For more information, or to schedule your summer blood donation appointment, please visit redcrossracing.com or call 1-800-RED-CROSS.