Blood shortage is critical

The American Red Cross Blood Services, New York-Penn Region is urging all eligible current and new donors to give blood and help to save lives this Memorial Day. Blood drives are scheduled throughout the week and over the long holiday weekend in many communities.

The Red Cross reports a critical shortage of blood type O-Negative, the universal blood type, of which a strong supply is needed to meet hospital demand. There is also a need for donors with blood type A-Negative. Donors are needed to strengthen the blood supply as the summer season unofficially begins.

Every summer, nationwide blood donations decline at a rate of 10 percent to 15 percent, due to donor vacations and school being out of session. 'As we head into summer it is imperative that donors make and keep appointments to give blood so that we can make sure hospitals have the blood they need for patients,' said Kay Schwartz, chief executive officer, American Red Cross Blood Services, New York-Penn Region. 'We're asking for new blood donors this summer. As the need for blood continues to increase, so must our ranks of dedicated blood donors.'

All current eligible and new donors are strongly urged to call 1-800-GIVE LIFE (1-800-448- 3543) or visit

www.DonateBloodNow.org

to schedule an appointment.

Blood donors must be at least 17-years-old, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in general good health. In New York State, 16-year-olds may donate blood provided they bring an original signed New York State Informed Parental Consent. The consent form can be found online. Identification is required at the time of donation.

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