The national appeal for immediate blood donations continues this week. Blood type O is needed desperately!
Severe winter weather still contributes to low donor-show rates and minimal blood collections. Blood types O-positive and O-negative have been depleted to medical approval levels, or levels where the Red Cross physician approves the distribution of each unit of blood types to ensure that patient needs are effectively met.
Regionally, the Red Cross has slightly more than a one-day supply. Healthy individuals age 17 or older and weighing at least 110 pounds should schedule a donation appointment by calling 274-7342, or e-mail smaxwell@ithaca.edu. You can also look for your chance to sign up in the Campus Center lobby February 4-6 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Please schedule an appointment and help recruit a friend to go with you to donate; we need all the donors we can get.
We want you to be an everyday local hero. Please give blood Tuesday, February 10, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in Emerson Suites. Help patients waging their own war on survival.
Did you know that
Only 5 percent of the populations who can donate blood actually do?
Your one donation can save up to three lives?
By recruiting a friend who donates, you both are helping save six lives?
85 percent of the population will require blood transfusion at some point in their life?
You are eligible to donate if you meet the following criteria:
Have not donated within the last 56 days.
Have not traveled abroad since 1980 for more than three cumulative months in Great Britain or six months cumulative in Europe.
On behalf of hospital patients in the Southern Tier, thank you in advance for your goodwill and generosity.
TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL DONATION
To improve your donation experience, be sure to
Eat well the day of donation.
Drink plenty of fluids.
Get a good night's sleep!
Remember to bring ID when you go to donate.
Contributed by Cynthia B. Smith
