The fall and winter can be a busy time full of fun activities and travel, but the same activities that bring joy can also negatively impact patients in need of lifesaving transfusions.
In fact, right now, the American Red Cross is facing a severe blood shortage and has issued an urgent call for eligible donors of all blood types to give now and avoid delays in medical care for patients. Right now, blood donations are being distributed to hospitals faster than donations are coming in.
Volunteer blood drive sponsors are also critically needed to host drives in December, January, and February to prevent the shortage from continuing throughout the winter.
Fewer groups signing up to host blood drives in September and October, coupled with the widespread cancellation of scheduled drives as a result of hurricanes Michael and Florence, were key factors that contributed to the current shortage. Winter blood drive hosts can also play a key role in helping to end it.