MOUNTING SNOW = DECREASED BLOOD DONATIONS

With 2 days of Blood Drives Cancelled the American Red Cross, Asks Donors to Schedule Appointments When Weather Improves.

Roanoke, VA. – February 7, 2010:  Snow and icy weather forced the cancellation of several blood drives in the Region scheduled for Friday and Saturday.  So far blood drive cancellations have resulted in the loss of over 365 pints of blood donations and approximately 100 platelet donations. Fortunately blood donations during the last few weeks have been steady and area hospitals were well stocked prior to the storm.

The Appalachian Region needs to collect approximately 300 donations every day; reduced collections can have a serious effect on the availability of blood for transfusion. To help ensure that all patients receive the blood they need, the Red Cross is asks eligible blood donors to schedule a donation appointment in the coming days.  There is a special need for type O negative donors to help maintain an adequate inventory. Platelet donors can call 1-866-353-1030 to schedule an appointment. 

For more information on eligibility, the donation process or to schedule an on-line appointment for a blood drive or donor center new and regular donors can visit our new website redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-REDCROSS.