American Red Cross hosts blood drives ahead of summer
The American Red Cross has scheduled blood drives in Pawnee and Payne Counties, seeking to increase the blood supply ahead of summer.
'Emergencies don't take a holiday. As we head into Memorial Day weekend, the American Red Cross urges donors to keep the blood supply top of mind and help save lives by making an appointment to give blood,' the Red Cross wrote in a press release. 'Immediate access to blood products is a key part of summer safety. With millions of Americans expected to travel around Memorial Day and engage in water sports, boating, camping and other outdoor activities, the risk of accidents increases. Though it can be a busy time, making and keeping blood donation appointments remains a critical priority in May during Trauma Awareness Month.
'Type O blood donors and those giving platelets are essential right now to meet the needs of hospitals. Volunteer blood donors can be the light in a patient's recovery, especially accident victims who may require hundreds of blood units through transfusions.'
The Payne County blood drives will be noon to 6 p.m. June 2 at the Stillwater Community Center and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 13 at Stillwater Medical Center.
The Pawnee County blood drive will be 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Cleveland Community Center, 211 E. Wichita Ave.
Appointments can be scheduled at RedCrossBlood.org, by downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor App or calling 1-800-REDCROSS.
'Those who come to give June 1-30, will get a $15 Amazon.com Gift Card by email and will be automatically entered for a chance to win one of two $7,000 gift cards. Terms apply. Visit RedCrossBlood.org/June,' the release reads. '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 in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), 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.
'Another way to support the lifesaving mission of the Red Cross is to become a volunteer blood donor ambassador at Red Cross blood drives. Blood donor ambassadors help greet, check in and thank blood donors to ensure they have a positive donation experience. Volunteers can also serve as transportation specialists, playing a vital role in ensuring lifesaving blood products are delivered to nearby hospitals. For more information and to apply for either position, contact visit redcross.org/volunteertoday.'
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