Red Cross very low on blood donations because of storms

Thanks to several harsh winter storms in many parts of the country, the American Red Cross has an urgent need for eligible blood and platelet donors in order to restock its shelves.

More than 200 blood drives were cancelled; that resulted in nearly 7,000 uncollected blood donations. Add that to the more than 26,400 uncollected blood donations in February.

“Blood products are being delivered to hospitals almost as quickly as they come in,” said Sara O’Brien of the Northern California Blood Services Region. “Donors who give now aren’t just restocking our shelves, they are making sure hope continues to be available for patients in need.”

The Red Cross urges donors of all blood types to make and keep appointments in the coming days. Platelet donors, as well as blood donors with the most in-demand blood types – O negative, A negative and B negative – are particularly encouraged to give now to help replenish the blood supply.

Platelets help prevent massive blood loss and are a vital part of cancer and organ transplant treatments. With a shelf life of just five days, platelet donations are especially needed. Eligible donors with types O negative, A negative and B negative blood are encouraged to donate double red cells where available.

Below are a list of upcoming blood drives:

3/12/2015: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Ryan Ranch Building 40, Ryan Ranch Office Park, 40 Ragsdale Dr., Monterey
3/12/2015: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., Northridge Mall, 796 Northridge Mall, Salinas
3/13/2015: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., King City High School, 720 Broadway St., King City
3/13/2015: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Ryan Ranch Building 40, Ryan Ranch Office Park, 40 Ragsdale Dr., Monterey
3/19/2015: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., Pacific Grove High School, 615 Sunset Dr., Pacific Grove

To find a convenient donation opportunity and schedule an appointment, donors can download the free Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).