The American Red Cross is working overtime to obtain donations of all blood types to help combat a shortage and help save lives.
Recently, the Red Cross reported in Arkansas and Missouri, there has been a 10 percent increase in the use of blood products compared to this time in 2019.
In a press release issued by the Red Cross earlier this summer, Chris Hrouda, president of the Red Cross Biomedical Services said the shortage of blood is growing critical.
“The Red Cross is currently experiencing a severe blood shortage,” Chris Hrouda said. “Our teams are working around the clock to meet the extraordinary blood needs of hospitals and patients – distributing about 75,000 more blood products than expected over the past three months to meet demand – but we can’t do it without donors. Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood.”
Locally, a blood drive is scheduled to take place July 13 at the Hardy Civic Center from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
As an added incentive, anyone who donates blood between now and July 31 will automatically be entered for a chance to win a trip for four to Cedar Point or Knott’s Berry Farm, will receive a $10 Amazon gift card via email and will also be entered into a drawing to win free fuel for a year.
As a result of the shortage, Hrouda said that some hospitals are being forced to delay surgeries.
“Some hospitals are being forced to slow the pace of elective surgeries until the blood supply stabilizes, delaying crucial patient care. As we return to pre-pandemic activities and resume travel to visit loved ones, we want people to remember the needs of patients this summer and the power so many of us have to help save lives,” Hrouda added.
To schedule an appointment at any time call 1-800-RED CROSS. You may also call to schedule an appointment online by going to RedCrossBlood.organd enter the code HardyCommunity to sign up for the upcoming blood drive.
Lauren is a an award-winning journalist who decided after 10 years of newspaper experience to venture out. Hallmark Times was born.
