Winter weather means Red Cross is in great need of blood donations
By Amanda Banks
Anyone, even a member of your own family, could need blood. In fact, every two seconds someone in America will need blood. That is why your blood donation through the American Red Cross is important – especially during the winter months.
As of Tuesday, November 18, there is just a 17-hour supply of blood type O-negative, the universal blood donor. In addition, blood types A-negative and B-negative are at less than a two-day supply. Overall, there is a four-day supply of blood available in the region.
With the holidays, travel plans and inclement weather, blood donations typically drop in the Indiana-Ohio Blood Services Region.
Visit a blood drive or donor center any time between December 1, 2008, and January 31, 2009, to enter our grand prize drawing for a winter trip of your choice. The lucky winner will receive a $1,000 American Airlines gift card and a $1,000 Marriott Hotels gift card.
You don’t need a special reason to give blood this winter…you just need your own reason.
Here are some upcoming blood drives in Whitley County:
- Thursday, December 4, from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. at United Methodist Church, located at 605 North Forest Parkwayin Columbia City.
- Tuesday, December 23, from 3-7 p.m. at St. Paul of the Cross Catholic Church, located at 315 South Line Streetin Columbia City. You can register by calling Jeanne at 244-5723.
If you are at least 17 years of age*, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and are in general good health, you may be eligible to donate blood. All donors need to present positive identification. For more information or to schedule your blood donation appointment, call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE (1-800-448-3543).
*In Indiana, you may give blood at 16 years of age with written, parental consent.