The American Red Cross is facing a national blood crisis, its worst blood shortage in over a decade, posing a concerning risk to patient care.
Amid this crisis, doctors have been forced to make difficult decisions about who receives blood transfusions and who will need to wait until more products become available. Blood donations are critically needed to help prevent further delays in vital medical treatments.
“While some types of medical care can wait, others can’t,” said Dr. Pampee Young, chief medical officer of the Red Cross.
“Hospitals are still seeing accident victims, cancer patients, those with blood disorders like sickle cell disease, and individuals who are seriously ill who all need blood transfusions to live even as Omicron cases surge across the country,” Young said.
“We’re doing everything we can to increase blood donations to ensure every patient can receive medical treatments without delay, but we cannot do it without more donors. We need the help of the American people,” Young said.
The Red Cross asks the country to roll up a sleeve to help ensure people receive the care they need. Make an appointment to give blood by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS, 1-800-733-2767.
Blood Drives scheduled on the Outer Banks in January include:
- Southern Shores Pitts Center, Wednesday, January 19, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Jennette’s Pier, Wednesday, January 26, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
In thanks, those who come to give in January will automatically be entered for a chance to win a getaway to Super Bowl LVI in Los Angeles and will also be automatically entered to win a home theater package and a $500 e-gift card. Terms apply; visit RedCrossBlood.org/SuperBowl for more information.