Red Cross marks National Blood Donor Month

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December 24, 2012

Red Cross marks National Blood Donor Month

Anonymous Weatherford Democrat The Weatherford Democrat Mon Dec 24, 2012, 03:22 AM CST

January is National Blood Donor Month, a time when the American Red Cross recognizes and thanks the millions of dedicated blood donors across the country for helping ensure a stable blood supply for patients in need.

Since 1970, National Blood Donor Month has been celebrated in an effort to educate Americans about the importance of regular blood donation and the impact it can have. Every day, around 44,000 pints of blood are needed in hospitals to help treat trauma victims, surgery patients, organ transplant recipients, premature babies, cancer patients and more.

January can be an especially challenging month to collect blood donations because of inclement weather and seasonal illnesses. Throughout the month, the Red Cross is honoring the contributions of those who roll up their sleeves to help save lives, one donation at a time.

Join the nearly 4 million dedicated Red Cross blood donors across the country and make an appointment to give by visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities:

Parker County

• Jan. 7 from 2-7 p.m. at Weatherford Library, 1014 Charles St. in Weatherford.

Tarrant County

• Jan. 10 from 2-6:30 p.m. at Azle Memorial Library, 333 W. Main St. in Azle.

How to donate blood

Simply call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org 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 (16 with parental consent in some states), 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.

About the American Red Cross

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families.

The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or join our blog at http://blog.redcross.org.