EXTON, PA — Patients count on American Red Cross blood donations year-round, but summer activities and vacation schedules can lead to a drop in donor appointments. To help avoid critical blood shortages and fill the urgent need for donations, state Rep. Danielle Friel Otten has partnered with the Red Cross and the Lionville YMCA for a Community Blood Drive.
The blood drive will take place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on June 24 at the Lionville YMCA, located at 100 Devon Drive in Exton.
Interested donors are encouraged to schedule their appointments in advance at 1-800-Red Cross (1-800-733-2767) or via the American Red Cross website with sponsor code “District155.”
“My team and I are committed to helping the Red Cross meet hospital and patient needs through blood donations,” said Otten, D-Chester. “A simple blood donation can help save the life of someone who could be a co-worker, loved one or neighbor. I encourage all healthy and eligible donors to donate blood. If you’re unable to donate at this event, please help us spread the word and consider donating at the next nearby opportunity. Every donation helps.”
Approximately 36,000 units or pints of red blood cells are needed every day in the United States. While blood donations are a critical and integral part of medical care, only about 3% of age-eligible people donate blood yearly. However, one donation can save up to three lives.
Donors of all blood types are needed, especially those with types O-negative, B-negative and A-negative. According to the Red Cross, Type O-negative is the universal blood type that can be safely transfused to anyone and is often used to treat trauma patients. Because only 7% of people in the United State are Type O-negative, it’s always in great demand and often in short supply.
Most individuals are eligible to donate blood in Pennsylvania if they are:
- In good health,
- 16 years old or older; and
- Weigh a minimum of 120 pounds.
For more information about this event, please contact Otten’s district office at 484-200-8259.
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