Published: January 03, 2009 09:37 pm      

Winter a crucial time for blood donations

DANVILLE — During a time of new beginnings and resolutions, the American Red Cross continues its efforts to recognize and honor all blood donors during January, National Blood Donor Month.

Since 1970, National Blood Donor Month has been celebrated in an effort to educate Americans about the importance of regular blood donation and the impact it can have on patients in need.

According to Pat Kovar of Community Blood Services of Illinois, “During the last two weeks of December, blood supplies declined significantly as blood donors (were) busy with holiday season activities and blood usage at area hospitals was at a near record high level.”

An immediate response by many donors who were contacted by phone averted a catastrophe. As of Friday, the blood center had low supplies of most blood types. Community Blood Services continues to encourage the public to donate blood if at all possible during the next few days.

Community Blood Services supplies the donated blood needed to treat patients at Provena United Samaritans Medical Center as well as other community hospitals in the area.

“Patients across the United States rely on a stable blood supply. The Red Cross needs healthy and eligible people to donate regularly to help meet those patients’ needs,” Shelly Heiden, CEO of the Heart of America Blood Services Region, said. “We thank our current blood donors and encourage those who have never donated blood to make an appointment to donate today.”

Every 2 seconds someone in the United States will need blood. Blood donors play an extremely important role to help ensure a safe and adequate blood supply is available during the winter months.

While the need for blood is constant, there is an even greater need during this time when the blood supply can reach critically low levels. Due to the ice and snow that recently moved through the area, the Red Cross estimates about 750 blood donations were lost. Blood donors are needed now to help boost the supply.

Other upcoming blood donation opportunities in Vermilion County include:

-- 2-6 p.m. Monday, Danville Community Church of God, 535 S. Bowman Ave.

-- Noon-6 p.m. Jan. 23, Hoopeston Junior Women’s Club, First Presbyterian Church, 915 E. Orange.

All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license, or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Eligible donors must be at least 17 years old, or 16 years old with a signed Red Cross parental/guardian consent form where state permits, must weigh at least 110 pounds and be in general good health.

Governed by volunteers and supported by giving individuals and communities, the American Red Cross is the single largest supplier of blood products to hospitals throughout the United States. While local hospital needs are always met first, the Red Cross also helps ensure no patient goes without blood no matter where or when he or she needs it.

In addition to providing nearly half of the nation’s blood supply, the Red Cross provides relief to victims of disaster, trains millions in lifesaving skills, serves as a communication link between U.S. military members and their families, and assists victims of international disasters.



TO HELP

-- In Danville, donations can be made from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays and Fridays and from noon-6 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at Community Blood Services, 300 E. Liberty Lane.

-- You also may call (800) 448-3543 or visit http://www.givebloodgivelife.org to make an appointment to donate blood or for more information.