Red Cross Encourages Donors to Give Blood This Summer

Myrtle Beach, S.C. – Need a break from your busy summer schedule? Want to save a life in the process? Beat the heat with the American Red Cross at the “Cheeseburger in Paradise” blood drive 7 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Friday, July 8, at the Red Cross Myrtle Beach Donation Center, 7747 North Kings Hwy.

Everyone who presents to donate at the “Cheeseburger in Paradise” blood drive will get a free Red Cross T-shirt, free food, and a chance to win one of two $3,000 American Express gift cards through the Red Cross “Super Summer Save” promotion.

For more information or to schedule an appointment to donate, call 1-800-RED CROSS.

The “Cheeseburger in Paradise” blood drive comes at an ideal time to boost blood donations as it is often difficult to collect enough blood to meet the needs of patients during the summer months. With schools out and families on vacation, it’s even more important that those who are eligible to donate come forward to give the gift of life.

In addition, the supply of type O negative blood at the American Red Cross has dropped to critically low levels. Type O negative blood is always in high demand because it can be transfused to patients with any blood type, especially in emergency situations. Type O negative donors are needed now to help prevent the type O negative blood supply from declining further. 

While all blood types are needed during the summer months, the Red Cross urges those eligible donors with O negative blood type to make and keep appointments in the upcoming days to help restore the blood supply.    

How to Donate Blood:

All blood types are needed to ensure the Red Cross maintains an adequate blood supply. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Donors must be in general good health, weigh at least 110 pounds and be at least 17 years old (16 with completed Parental Consent Form). New height and weight restrictions apply to donors younger than 19. Call 1-800-Red Cross or visit redcrossblood.org to learn more.

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies nearly half of the nation's blood; teaches lifesaving skills; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization — not a government agency — and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission.

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