The American Red Cross urges blood donors of all types and those who have never given before to book a time to give blood or platelets now and help keep the blood supply from dropping ahead of the holidays.
People of all blood types are needed, especially platelet donors and those with type O blood – blood products that are critical to keeping hospitals ready to help patients depending on transfusions in the weeks ahead.
Book by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767). As a thank-you for taking the time to give this fall, all who come to give Nov.1-22 will receive a $10 e-gift card by email to a merchant of choice. Details are available at rcblood.org/perks.
Upcoming blood donation opportunities in Wood County include:
• Nov. 5, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Bowling Green Eagles Club, 1163 N. Main St.
• Nov. 11, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Zenobia Shrine, 8048 Broadstone Blvd., Perrysburg
• Nov. 12, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Lutheran Church of the Master, 28744 Simmons Road, Perrysburg
• Nov. 15, 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Owens Community College, 7315 Championship Drive, Perrysburg
All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. 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 in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), 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.
Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.
Another way to support the lifesaving mission of the Red Cross is to become a volunteer blood donor ambassador at Red Cross blood drives. Blood donor ambassadors help greet, check in and thank blood donors.
Volunteers can also serve as transportation specialists, ensuring blood products are delivered to nearby hospitals.
For more information and to apply for a either position, contact the Northern Ohio Volunteer Services team at 216-431-3328 or [email protected] or visit https://www.redcross.org/volunteertoday.
