The American Red Cross asks donors give blood now and throughout the end of the year.On Wednesday, the Alley-White American Legion Post 52 will be hosting a blood drive from 10 until 2 at 717 Market Street in Mountain Home.
Type-O blood and platelet donors are in high demand to ensure hospitals have the blood they need going into the new year.
As a thank you, all donors who give blood now through January 2 will receive a long-sleeved Red Cross t-shirt, while supplies last.
According to AAA, nearly 113 million people are expected to travel at least 50 miles from home between Dec. 23 and Jan. 2, meaning many who may have otherwise given blood will likely defer their donation until the new year. Unfortunately, trauma patients in the emergency room, those undergoing cancer treatment and new parents in need of lifesaving transfusions can’t take a holiday break. The need for blood is constant.
Donors can download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org, or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to make an appointment or for more information. 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.
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