With the traditional Christmastime decline in blood donations, the American Red Cross is counting on the public to respond to an increased need for donors in coming days.
Blood donations are down 20 percent over the past three weeks, and the Red Cross is hoping to erase that deficit by encouraging both new donors and recurring donors to help.
Coweta residents will have a chance to donate today at the Piedmont Newnan Hospital from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Donors can make an appointment by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visiting redcrossblood.org.
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 permission 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.
“The Red Cross is very appreciative of our loyal blood and platelet donors who give of themselves to help save the lives of others,” said Mario Sedlock, director of donor services, American Red Cross, Southern Blood Services Region. “We would not be able to meet the needs of patients in the hospitals that we serve without their support.”
