Winter Storm Causes Cancellation of Blood Drives

WEST HENRIETTA, NY (12/13/2007)(readMedia)-- The American Red Cross is reminding all that each day, there are patients in area hospitals who need blood – snow, rain or shine. It is of crucial importance that eligible blood donors come to donate blood, to ensure blood will be there when it is needed.

Blood can be used for many surgical procedures, bone marrow transplants, trauma and patients undergoing chemotherapy. For some patients, such as the victim of an automobile accident, the need for blood is sudden. For others, ongoing transfusions are needed to sustain lifesaving medical treatment.

“There are patients among us who need blood each and every day,” said Kay Schwartz, Chief Executive Office, New York-Penn Region. “Today’s snow storm could result in the cancellation of blood drives across the region. When driving conditions improve, we are asking those who are eligible to donate blood to please do so, so blood will continue to be available when it is needed.”

Despite all medical advances, there is still no substitute for blood. During the winter months in the New York-Penn Region, blood supplies often drop significantly due to inclement weather, hazardous driving conditions and illness. Yet the need for blood remains constant.

All current eligible and new donors are strongly urged to schedule and keep appointments to donate blood today by calling 1-800-GIVE LIFE (1-800-448-3543)or by visiting www.DonateBloodNow.org. Anyone 17 years or older, weighing at least 110 pounds and in general good health may be eligible to donate blood. In New York State, 16-year-olds may donate blood provided they bring an original signed New York State Informed Parental Permission for a 16-Year-Old to Donate Whole Blood to the blood drive. The consent form can be found at www.DonateBloodNow.org/16. Identification is required at the time of donation to give blood.

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