More than 50 years ago – on December 31, 1969 – President Richard Nixon signed a proclamation designating January as National Blood Donor Month (NBDM). The new monthly observance was meant to honor voluntary blood donors and to encourage more people to give blood at a time when more blood is desperately needed.
“National Blood Donor Month is an opportunity to recognize those across the country who regularly roll up their sleeves and help save lives,” said Rachel Flanigan, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Southern Nevada Chapter. “But this past year’s severe weather caused the cancellation of many donor events, so we’re encouraging everyone to celebrate the New Year by giving blood now.”
There is typically a slowdown of blood donations during the holiday season and winter months, she said. “In recent weeks, however, winter weather throughout the U.S. has led to the cancellation of more than 300 Red Cross Blood drives in the Eastern and Midwestern states, and about 9,000 potential donations have gone uncollected,” Flanigan said.
In fact, this year’s National Blood Donor Month comes at a time when the nation’s blood supply has dipped to concerning levels. “There are multiple causes for our decreased blood supply, many weather-related, but we’re working hard to increase our reserves,” said Flanigan. “And remember, blood cannot be synthetically made, meaning volunteer donors are the only resource for providing blood to those in need.”
Donors of all blood types – particularly type O, the blood group hospitals use most – are needed now to give blood or platelets to help meet demand. Schedule an appointment today by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting redcrossblood.org, or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
“In the U.S., 62% of the population is eligible to give blood, but only 3% does,” said Dr. Walter Kelley, Divisional Chief Medical Officer for the Pacific, Rocky Mountain, and Southwest Divisions of the American Red Cross. “Any of us – our friends, family, neighbors – could be in an accident or become ill some day and need blood,” he said. “By choosing to give now, donors not only help boost the future blood supply, but also support those in need of emergency lifesaving care or transfusions for medical treatment.”
Looking for a place near you to donate blood, media, and education resources? Visit www.donatingblood.org, your single source to learn about donating blood.
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