I received this email from the American Red Cross and wanted to pass it on:
Severe winter weather throughout much of the United States has caused the cancellation of more than 14,000 blood and platelet donations since January 1.
There is a critical need for donors now. In fact, someone is counting on you at this very moment.
The Red Cross urges all eligible donors in unaffected areas to make an appointment to give blood or platelets in the coming days, and those in affected areas to donate as soon as travel is safe.
To make an appointment for a whole blood or double red cell donation, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit us online at redcrossblood.org. To make an appointment for a platelet donation, click here.
If you are not eligible to donate, please encourage a friend or family member to donate.
Donations will help replenish the blood supply to ensure that blood continues to be available for patients with serious medical needs.
Now I really must go to the gym and pray for some warmer weather…hey, it never hurts to make like the blood type and be positive.
Miz says:
January 31st 2011I think about this during the holidays too when I have NO CLUE what to get people.
giving to others (birthday holiday fathers day…) in their name/with them in mind is the best gift huh?
Jody - Fit at 53 says:
January 31st 2011VERY IMPORTANT! Thx Joanna!
Deb (SmoothieGirlEatsToo) says:
January 31st 2011I give blood every 6 or 8 weeks (the minimum). It’s just part of my routine. I used to give platelets too. My problem (and why I was rejected last week) is either my hemoglobin is a little low (not too low for general population but too low to donate) or low blood pressure. It’s especially true if I’ve been eating healthier (less red meat etc). I am gonna give it another try this week. I also have to not overhydrate-like drinking my big bottle at the gym- before I go b/c it dilutes the blood further.
THanks for getting the word out there.
The Candid RD says:
January 31st 2011It’s pathetic to admit this, but I don’t weigh enough to give blood. I’m about 4 pounds off. Oh well, I’m TERRIFIED of needles, so I have Nick donate for me every year on my b-day!! Yep, he gave his blood two weeks ago (my b-day was yesterday) and I try to get him to do it on my half birthday too :) He’s such a trooper!
MOM says:
January 31st 2011Great message Joanna. It is really a “life giving” thing to do…
LauraJayne says:
January 31st 2011Thanks for the reminder – I’m a universal donor, so I need to get in there!
FatFighterTV says:
January 31st 2011Is it Spring yet???