The American Red Cross critically needs blood and platelet donors now following a concerning decrease in donations as the country has experienced an increase in severe weather systems and historic travel. In fact, over the past month about 20,000 fewer blood donations were collected than needed to maintain the Red Cross national blood supply.
According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), five of the busiest travel days ever happened this month and more record-breaking travel is expected this summer — a busy time when many regular donors may be unable to give. Additionally, as the U.S. approaches what AAA calls the “100 deadliest days” of summer for auto accidents, it is critical hospitals have lifesaving blood products on hand for all trauma and accident victims who count on transfusions when there is no time to waste. In some of the most-dire situations, medical teams may need to use hundreds of blood products to save a life.
Memorial Day weekend also brought the busiest severe weather day of the year so far, with 26 reported tornadoes across 10 states — with Wisconsin among those affected.
Individuals are urged to help those facing emergencies — whether a need for a lifesaving blood transfusion or a need for shelter from the storm.
Make a blood donation appointment by downloading the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients.
