| Red Cross Appealing for Blood Donors |
| Thursday, 31 August 2006 07:48 | |||
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FARMINGTON – August’s record breaking temperatures across the region have severely impacted blood collections, re-sulting in a significant loss of blood. Coming off of a particu-larly challenging month of July, the American Red Cross is still facing a daunting deficit of 3,000 units of blood.
The extreme heat forced many blood drives to close, making it necessary for the Red Cross to cut shipments of blood to area hospitals. The safety of the Red Cross blood supply rests on the generosity of volunteer donors. Eligible donors are being urged to help make up this critical shortfall. The Red Cross holds blood drives seven days a week in communities across Connecticut. Donna M. Morrissey, director of public relations and corporate affairs for the American Red Cross Blood Services – Northeast Division, expressed gratitude to those who donated blood during the heat wave but said it was not enough. “ Due to the extreme weather, we are facing an extreme blood shortage and are urging our neighbors to come in … and give the gift of life,” she said. “While the New England weather is unpredictable, one thing is for sure: the Red Cross will be there during times of need, and we need the public’s help right now.” To find out where to donate blood, members of the public are being asked to call 1-800-GIVE LIFE or visit www.bloodct.org. To donate blood through the American Red Cross, a person must be at least 17 years of age, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in general good health.
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