Action Alert from Red Cross Blood Services

This just in from our community partners at the American Red Cross Blood Services.  We have blood drives scheduled for February 17th on the Portland and Gorham campuses, but if it's difficult for you to take time during the work day, or if you are able to go to the Donor Center on Forest Avenue before then, that's great, too!  -ATM

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ACTION ALERT!
January 24, 2011

 

Severe winter weather throughout much of the United States has caused the cancellation of more than 14,000 blood and platelet donations since January 1.

There is a critical need for donors now. In fact, someone is counting on you at this very moment.

 

All blood types are needed, but type O negative donors can make the difference between an adequate blood supply and a shortage.

 

The Red Cross urges all eligible donors in unaffected areas to make an appointment to give blood or platelets in the coming days, and those in affected areas to donate as soon as travel is safe.  Call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit us online at redcrossblood.org.

 

Donations will help replenish the blood supply to ensure that blood continues to be available for patients with serious medical needs.

  

 Let donors know:

• The need for blood is constant. Approximately every two seconds a patient in the United States needs a blood transfusion.
• Blood is perishable and has no substitute. Red blood cells have a shelf life of only 42 days and platelets just 5 days – they must be replenished constantly.
• Type O negative is always in high demand because it can be transfused to patients of any blood type, especially in emergency situations.

Be sure to contact your American Red Cross representative with any questions or requests for assistance.

Jennifer Goldman

Donor Recruitment Representative, American Red Cross

524 Forest Avenue, Portland, ME  04101

(207)775-2367 (t)

(207)699-6028 (c)

Goldmanjr@usa.redcross.org

 

Andrea Thompson McCall

 Director of Community Service Learning

 University Interfaith Chaplain

University of Southern Maine

P.O. Box 9300

Portland, ME 04104-9300

 

Phone 207-228-8284

FAX 207-228-8403