Red Cross supports blood needs in California

JOHNSTOWN - The American Red Cross Blood Services national system continues to ship blood products from across the United States into southern California to help stabilize the blood supply in the region affected by the wildfires.

The American Red Cross has provided nearly 2,000 blood products to date in support the efforts of the Southern California Blood Services Region. Blood drives in southern California have been curtailed due to the wildfire situation, and as a result, donations from residents in the area are limited.

At this time, the American Red Cross is able to meet the requirements of its Southern California Region. However, there may be an increase in demand for blood over the next few weeks as area hospitals reschedule elective surgeries which were cancelled this week due to the fires.

"In order to ensure our local community blood supply is stable, and to help keep the southern California blood supply at an adequate level, it is important for eligible donors to make appointments to donate blood over the next several weeks," stated Jim Starr, CEO, Greater Alleghenies Region, Red Cross Blood Services.

He said that through last week, the 100-county Greater Alleghenies Region, which serves the local area, had sent 262 units of plasma products to California, and is scheduled to send an additional 384 products this week.

"Each weekday we need to collect approximately 1,000 units of blood to meet regional patient need," Starr commented. "So as we join with sister Red Cross blood regions to assist in meeting patient needs in California, we also continue 24/7 to provide blood products for patients being cared for in the nearly 100 hospitals our region serves. Our region's donors have stepped up in the past to support others in need across the country, and we are certain they will do so again."

Locally there is a blood drive Nov. 1, Waynesboro American Legion, 90 West Main Street-Waynesboro, noon to 6 p.m.

Anyone 17 years of age or older, weighing 110 pounds or more and feeling in good health may be eligible to donate blood. Please call the American Red Cross at 1- 800-GIVE-LIFE (800-448-3543) or visit www.redcrosslife.org to schedule your appointment.