Red Cross encourages Memorial Day blood donations to honor fallen military
The centers in Salt Lake City (6616 South 900 East), Lehi (310 North 850 East), and Layton (852 West Hill Field Road) are open for appointments, which the Red Cross said several are still available.
'There are many ways to pay tribute on Memorial Day,' said Heidi Ruster, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region. 'By donating blood, you not only honor our fallen heroes, but you also become a hero to those in need of lifesaving transfusions.'
The Red Cross of Utah said there is a critical demand for type O blood. Type O positive blood is the most frequently transfused blood type and type O negative blood is known as the 'universal' blood type, used in emergency situations when the patient's blood type is unknown.
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As Utah enters the 100 deadliest days of summer, the Red Cross said a single major car accident can deplete a hospital's blood supply.
'It's crucial for donors of all types to step forward, especially those with O negative blood,' said Ruster. 'Trauma centers rely on this universal blood type for emergencies when every second counts.'
Ruster, who is also a U.S. Navy veteran, added that when children see their parents giving blood, they understand the importance of donations and are more likely to feel empowered to contribute themselves when they are older.
For those interested in donating blood on Memorial Day, the Salt Lake and Lehi donation centers are open until 2:30 p.m. The Layton donation center is open until 3 p.m.
Donors are encouraged to schedule an appointment through the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by , or by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (733-2767). Use sponsor codes SaltLakeCityUT, LaytonUT, or LehiUT to make an appointment at one of the available donation centers.
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