O Negative blood urgently needed

The American Red Cross Blood Services, New York-Penn Region is urgently calling for all eligible donors to give blood to celebrate National Volunteer Blood Donor Month (NVBDM) and strengthen a declining regional blood supply. The Red Cross collected 2000 units less in December than it did last December - due to the back-to-back Monday holidays.

While all blood types are needed, a critical plea is being made for blood donors with type O Negative blood, the universal blood type. The Red Cross is currently rationing type O Negative units to hospitals and type A Negative units are projected to reach critical levels early next week.

January is a difficult month for blood centers to collect adequate blood donations due to holidays, busy travel schedules, inclement weather and illness.

As a token of thanks for volunteer blood donors who give blood during NVBDM, all presenting blood donors through January 31 are eligible to enter a random drawing to have their gas and electric bill paid for one month (up to $500). Two winners from the New York-Penn Region will be chosen.

To donate blood soon, please phone 1.800.448.3543 or visiting www.DonateBloodNow.org

Anyone 17 years or older, weighing at least 110 pounds and in general good health may donate. Identification is required.

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