Baltimore, MD (August 10, 2007) – Adequate community blood supplies are vital to the safety and health of our community, reports Lt. Governor Anthony Brown in a press conference today. Along with, the Greater Chesapeake & Potomac Blood Services Region of the American Red Cross, the Lt. Governor is urging all eligible blood donors to call 1-800-GIVE LIFE to schedule a blood donation appointment right away. Platelet donors should call 1-800-272-2123.
“The current situation is critical, and I urge Marylanders to respond immediately by donating blood. The health and vitality of our community depends on it,” states Maryland Lt. Governor Brown, “Without an adequate blood supply, Marylanders could be caught unprepared for a disaster or other emergency situation.”
“Blood donors save lives. Unfortunately, emergencies are always unexpected, and once the accident has happen it is too late. We need to prepare now by replenishing the depleted blood supply or patients in our community could be put in jeopardy,” adds American Red Cross Board Vice Chairperson Maryam Bhatti, “We thank the Lt. Governor and invite other community leaders to encourage blood donations among community members.”
According to Dr. Joan Gibble, Medical Director for the GC&P Region, “There is no substitute for human blood, and volunteer donors are the only patient lifeline. The American Red Cross needs to collect about 1000 units of blood every day to meet the local need.” Blood shortages can only be avoided by recruiting enough blood donors to meet the demand.
The American Red Cross is asking all eligible donors to help replenish the blood supply by calling 1-800-GIVE LIFE today to schedule a blood donation appointment. Walk-ins are accepted at Red Cross donor centers, and appointments are encouraged. As a token of appreciation, the Region is offering all participants through September 3 a retro style “It’s Hip to Give” t-shirt.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO GIVE BLOOD? DONORS MUST:
Members of the community are asked to call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE immediately to schedule a blood donation appointment. Information about Regional Blood Donor Centers or community blood drive locations and times can be found at www.my-redcross.org. Business and community groups that are willing to hold blood drives are asked to call 1-800-787-9282, x4680 for information.