Blood donations nosedive with severe weather - help needed

Red Cross issues critical plea for blood donors NORTHEASTERN PA — The American Red Cross Blood Services, Northeastern Pennsylvania Region is hoping to recover from a plunge in blood collections due to the recent severe winter weather across Northeastern Pennsylvania in recent days. More than 500 potential products of blood have gone uncollected since Dece 13. The decline was caused by cancelled blood drives, early closings and low donor turnout. “We may have to cut back on supplying the area hospitals if this continues,” said Northeastern Pennsylvania Region Chief Executive Officer, Tony Ferlenda. “We have not asked hospitals to postpone surgeries at this point, but fear we might if collections do not rebound soon.” Ferlenda explained that the storm has also strained the region’s supply of platelets, a product often needed for patients with cancer, leukemia and other serious illnesses. While all blood types are urgently needed, the Red Cross reports that if current trends continue, it will have to begin rationing Type O negative, the universal blood type, by early next week, followed shortly by Type O positive and Type A negative. The Red Cross reminds donors that it is critical to keep scheduled appointments, weather permitting, to help meet patients’ needs. All current eligible and new donors are strongly urged to schedule and keep appointments to donate blood today by calling 1-800-GIVE LIFE (1-800-448-3543) or visiting www.nepagivelife.org. Anyone 17 years or older, weighing at least 110 pounds and in general good health may be eligible to donate blood. Identification is required at time of donation.