SOUTHERN UTAH — Summer is often a difficult time to collect blood, which is why the American Red Cross is working to inspire blood and platelet donations to celebrate World Blood Donor Day Sunday.

In addition to World Blood Donor Day, donors are urged to choose their day to give hope to patients in need by donating blood or platelets during the “100 days of summer. 100 days of hope.” campaign, officially sponsored by Suburban Propane.

The Red Cross experiences a seasonal decline beginning in June.

“By choosing a day to give blood or platelets,” Red Cross External Communications Manager Kimberly Houk said, “volunteer donors can give hope and help maintain a sufficient supply for patients in need.”

---

Click the following links to find a summer blood drive in your area:

St. George, Hurricane, Cedar City, Kanab, Tropic, Beaver | Other – enter your zip code

---

Summer vacations and travel can contribute to less availability for people to give blood or platelets. In a spring survey of Red Cross blood and platelet donors, nearly 90 percent indicated plans to take vacations this summer.

However, patients don’t get a summer holiday or vacation from needing lifesaving blood. The Red Cross relies on volunteer donors for the 15,000 blood donations needed every day to support patients at about 2,600 hospitals and transfusion centers nationwide.

All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age, weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

“The Suburban Propane family is proud to support the mission of the Red Cross and help ensure that blood and platelets are available for patients in need during the challenging summer months,” Mark Wienberg, Suburban Propane’s chief operating officer, said. “By partnering with the Red Cross, we are able to continue a noble cause that improves the lives of those in our communities.”

About the American Red Cross

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission.

Resources

• To donate blood, download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit the Red Cross website or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to make an appointment.
• Red Cross website | Twitter

Related posts

• American Red Cross recognizes Southern Utah heroes; STGnews Videocast
• No Filter: Heroes
• Heart Walk foundation leaders receive Red Cross award

Email: [email protected]

Twitter: @stgnews