Since the beginning of the year, widespread flu
and inclement winter weather in some parts of the country have
prevented many regular donors from making or keeping their blood
donation appointments. Healthy and diverse blood donors are needed
to help maintain a sufficient blood supply.
Diversity among blood donors is important because red blood cells
carry markers that determine one’s blood type, and certain blood
types are unique to specific racial and ethnic groups. Blood must be
matched very closely for those patients with rare blood types or for
those who need repeated transfusions. Patients are less likely to
have complications from blood donated by someone with a similar
ethnicity.
All blood types are needed, especially types O negative, A negative
and B negative. To learn more about donating blood and to schedule
an appointment, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit
redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
The next local blood drive will be held February
18th from noon to 5 p.m. at the Lincoln Park District, 1400 Railer
Way, Lincoln.
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