By American Red Cross
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – When severe winter weather begins to clear and it is considered safe to travel, the American Red Cross is asking all eligible blood and platelet donors to make an appointment to donate and help replenish the blood supply.
The recent severe winter weather forced the cancellation of 76 Red Cross blood drives across Middle Tennessee, Southern Kentucky and some counties in Illinois and Missouri resulting in the shortfall of 2,192 combined blood and platelet donations since Monday, Feb. 16.
“It is the blood products already on the shelves that help save lives when severe weather hits,” said Tim Ryerson, CEO Tennessee Valley Blood Services Region. “The need for blood does not get a snow day.”
Blood donors of all types – especially those with types O negative, B negative and A negative blood – and platelet donors are needed.
To schedule an appointment to donate, please download the Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
How to donate blood
Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.