BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — One in 7 patients entering a hospital will need a blood transfusion. At the same time, only about 3% of Americans give blood. The American Red Cross needs more people to make and keep appointments to give blood or platelets in February and has three great reasons to do so:
- Help prevent a blood shortage: Winter brings seasonal illness and dangerous weather, which can hurt the blood supply. When donors give now, they can help ensure blood is on hospital shelves when it’s needed.
- It’s Heart Month: During a blood donation appointment, the Red Cross checks donors’ blood pressure and pulse, which are important indicators of heart health.
- Treat yourself: All who come to give in February will get a $10 Amazon.com Gift Card by email, thanks to Amazon. Those who come to donate this month will also automatically be entered to win a trip for two to Clearwater Beach, Florida. Details are available on the American Red Cross website.
Donors of all blood types – particularly type O blood donors, the most needed blood group by hospitals – and platelet donors are needed daily to meet demand. You can book a time to give blood or platelets by visiting the American Red Cross website, downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor App, or calling 1-800-RED CROSS.
UPCOMING BLOOD DONATION OPPORTUNITIES FEB. 21-28
Huntsville
2/21/2023: 12:45 p.m. - 7:45 p.m., Huntsville Blood Donation Center, 1015 Airport Rd., SW
2/22/2023: 10 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Eva B. Dykes Library, Oakwood University, 7000 Adventist Blvd.
2/22/2023: 10:45 a.m. - 5:45 p.m., Huntsville Blood Donation Center, 1015 Airport Rd., SW
2/24/2023: 8:15 a.m. - 3:15 p.m., Huntsville Blood Donation Center, 1015 Airport Rd., SW
2/25/2023: 8:15 a.m. - 3:15 p.m., Huntsville Blood Donation Center, 1015 Airport Rd., SW
2/26/2023: 8:15 a.m. - 3:15 p.m., Huntsville Blood Donation Center, 1015 Airport Rd., SW
2/27/2023: 12:45 p.m. - 7:45 p.m., Huntsville Blood Donation Center, 1015 Airport Rd., SW
2/28/2023: 12:45 p.m. - 7:45 p.m., Huntsville Blood Donation Center, 1015 Airport Rd., SW
Madison
2/18/2023: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., St. John's Catholic Church, 1055 Hughes Rd.