February 10, 2021. Hall of Service, American Red Cross National Headquarters, Washington, DC. Blood donor proudly shows off bandaged arm after giving with the American Red Cross to help patients in need. Photo by Brad Zerivitz/American Red Cross
Some hospitals are being forced to slow the pace of elective surgeries until critically short supplies of blood can be stabilized – that according to the American Red Cross. The problem comes during a normal summer slowdown of donations, while at the same time many vaccinated Americans are returning to normal summer activities after being limited for over a year due to the pandemic. That increased activity has resulted in an unusually high number of traumas and emergency room visits, while overdoses and the resulting need for transplants further complicate the situation.
Donors of all blood types – especially type O and those giving platelets – are being urged to make an appointment to give as soon as possible in order to restock shelves in time for the July 4th weekend and beyond.
The most immediate local blood drive will be held this Wednesday from noon until 5 PM at the Ladewig Zinkgraf American Legion Post 243 at 40 South Stafford Street in Plymouth, while many others are scheduled elsewhere after the July 4th weekend. But you can always schedule a donation online by visiting RedCrossBlood.org.
Those who donate July 1st through the 6th will receive a Red Cross embroidered hat by mail while supplies last, and those donating July 7th through the 31st will receive a $10 Amazon.com Gift Card by mail and be given the chance to win a year’s worth of gas valued at $5,000.
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