American Red Cross
Show Your Support by Giving Blood
WASHINGTON D.C. – May 24, 2017 – The American Red Cross urges eligible individuals to schedule an appointment to donate blood or platelets to help ensure lifesaving blood products are available for hospital patients all summer long – one of the most challenging times of the year for donations. With the number of new donors typically declining by more than 30 percent during the summer months of June, July, and August, the Red Cross extends its call for donors to those who have never donated blood or platelets before.
“Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs a blood transfusion,” said Shaun Gilmore, president, Red Cross Blood Services. “Summer is a difficult time to collect donations with schools that host blood drives on break and many people off enjoying vacation, yet that critical and constant need for blood does not change. As we kickoff the unofficial start to summer this Memorial Day weekend, we welcome our valued volunteer donors and those who never donated before to give the gift of life. Patients are counting on us.”
6 things to know before donating blood
Donating blood is a simple process and only takes about an hour. To help reduce the fear of the unknown for new donors, here are six things helpful to know before donating blood:
1. Maintain a healthy iron level in your diet.
2. Hydrate – drink an extra 16 oz of liquid before and after your donation.
3. Have a healthy meal before your donation – avoid foods high in fat just prior to donation.
4. Wear comfortable clothing with sleeves that can be raised above the elbow.
5. Complete your RapidPass on the day of donation, prior to arriving, to save time.
6. Remember to bring your ID!
Interested individuals can also review additional Red Cross tips for a successful donation.
Schedule an appointment to give
To make an appointment to donate, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Donors of all blood types are needed. To encourage donations around the Memorial Day holiday, those who come to give blood or platelets from May 26-30 will receive a Red Cross visor, while supplies last.
A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
