Rare Donors

You’ve got something rare to share! You are a rare blood donor. Your blood type is present in less than 1/1000 people. That’s a big deal and we want to be sure you to know it.

• Having rare blood means that your blood is either missing one very common antigen that is present in most of the general population or it’s missing a combination of antigens. An antigen is a substance on your red cells like a protein.
• Every 2 seconds someone needs blood. And people with rare blood depend on one another to be sure there’s an abundant supply of blood available when needed.
• Rare blood may run in your family. If you have biological siblings, tell them about your rare blood. They have a chance of having rare blood too. You can make donation a family event!

The Red Cross and the American Rare Donor Program (ARDP)

The Red Cross is part of the American Rare Blood Donor Program (ARBDP), a national organization whose mission is to ensure that rare blood is available for the patients who need it. Twice a year the ARDP will reach out to you to update your contact information, so you can be found quickly if needed.

Don’t wait to be called to donate: You can donate blood every 56 days if you continue to meet the eligibility guidelines for donation.

You can also: Download the Blood Donor App or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). More information on rare blood types and diversity.