Wednesday, May 28, 2003

More blood donors needed to curb short supply for summer The American Red Cross is seeking blood donors to help cover the typical shortage of supply seen during the summer months. The blood supply usually shrinks during summer because school is out, according to officials. Students account for roughly 15 percent of the blood supply, according to the Red Cross. The Southern Region of the American Red Cross Blood Services needs about 1,200 units of blood each day to serve over 140 hospitals and health care facilities. The Red Cross recently opened a new blood donation center on the Southside in Stockbridge. The new center is located at 675 Southcrest Parkway in suite 120. Officials are encouraging first-time donors as well as veteran donors, who can give blood every 56 days. Most healthy people who are at least 17 years old and weigh 110 pounds or more can give blood. The entire process takes about an hour, and donors can sign up by calling 1-800-GIVE-LIFE or online at www.givelife.org. What do you think of this story? Click here to send a message to the editor. Back to the News Home Page| Back to the top of the page