NEED FOR BLOOD HIGH THIS TIME OF YEAR
Saturday, December 17th, 2005 -- 11:58 AM
Red Cross representatives say people should consider giving the gift of blood this Christmas season. Studies show only three in one hundred people donate blood ? and that percentage drops even lower this time of year. Appearing on our Viewpoint program Thursday morning, Bonita Leitza, a donor recruitment representative with the American Red Cross, says this is a crucial time of year to give blood."During the first official shopping day after Thanksgiving, that's when we begin to see people get busier, and we're competing with the other activities in their life," Leitza says.
Blood is only usable for about six-weeks from the time it?s donated, so Leitza says there is a constant demand for donations.
"We need to beat them over the head with this message that we are still counting on them for that blood donation and the fact they are busy in no way affects the need for blood," Leitza says.
The process is easy. It usually only takes around six- to seven-minutes to give blood, and if you?ve been turned away before, you should check again as some restrictions have eased. For instance, people with tattoos used to be turned away ? now, they?re welcome. But, if you?re not feeling well, you probably should stay home.
"If you're generally feeling well, you don't have an elevated temperature, you're probably going to be eligible," Leitza explains.
The American Red Cross bloodmobile will be coming to the United Church of Christ in Neillsville on Monday (December 19th), from noon until 6 p.m. It will also visit the Boyd American Legion on Friday from 1-6 p.m. There is currently a shortage of ?O-negative? and ?B-negative?.
For more information on blood drives in your area, you may call 1(800) GIVE-LIFE.
[url=http://www.redcross.org]American Red Cross[/url]
Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.