The need for blood donations in New Jersey is critical. Many blood drives were canceled due to Hurricane Irene, resulting in a shortfall of nearly 1,500 units of blood. In addition, hundreds of area blood and platelet donors have been unable to make their scheduled donation appointments because of storm-related issues.
Call 1-800-RED CROSS to register for current blood drives. There is also an urgent need for eligible platelet donors. Call 215-451-4153 to schedule a donation as soon as possible.
New Jersey Blood Services, a division of New York Blood Center, is also following emergency declarations of Governor Christie and other tri-state public officials with an emergency appeal for blood donors. The supply of several blood types, including O-negative — known as universal donor blood — has dropped below the two-day minimum level.
“We anticipated the potential effects of Irene, and delivered extra blood in advance to our 200 partner hospitals,” said NYBC Vice President Rob Purvis. “Our first priority remains getting them whatever they need for the care of trauma and cancer patients.”
“We need the help of our communities to replenish the blood supply,” says Rob Purvis, NYBC vice president. “The need for blood is constant, whatever the weather or holiday.”
The shelf life of platelets is only five days; the shelf life of red blood cells is 42 days. About one in seven people entering a hospital needs blood. Any company, community organization, place of worship, or individual may host a blood drive. To donate blood or for information on how to organize a blood drive, call 800-933-2566 or visit www.nybloodcenter.org.
