Red Cross: Three Reasons To Give Blood This Month

One in seven patients entering a hospital will need a blood transfusion. At the same time, only about 3 percent of Americans give blood. The American Red Cross needs more people to make and keep appointments to give blood in February and has three great reasons to do so:

Help prevent a blood shortage: Winter brings seasonal illness and dangerous weather, which can hurt the blood supply. When donors give now, they can help ensure blood is on hospital shelves when it’s needed.

It’s Heart Month: During a blood donation appointment, the Red Cross checks donors’ blood pressure and pulse, which are important indicators of heart health.

Treat yourself: All who come to give in February will get a $10 Amazon.com Gift Card by email, thanks to Amazon. Those who come to donate this month will also automatically be entered to win a trip for two to Clearwater Beach, Florida. Details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/heart.

Donors of all blood types – particularly type O blood donors, the most needed blood group by hospitals – are needed daily to meet demand. Protect the blood supply from dropping – book a time to give blood by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor App, or calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities Feb. 15-28:

Glasgow

2/15/2023: 11 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., VFW, 1222 U.S. Highway 2 W.

Hinsdale

2/16/2023: 12:30 p.m. - 6 p.m., Hinsdale Legion Hall