Red Cross Needs Donations After Blood Shortage
The American Red Cross is asking you to consider donating blood this holiday season. It's the season of giving after all, and this is one of the best gifts you can give! And I mean hey, you know it's a gift that can't be returned which is the worst part of gift giving.
According to Mystateline -
The agency says it saw very few donations in September and October. They add that even fewer donors are expected during the holiday season, which could mean delayed medical treatment for those in need.
The Red Cross is asking you to get out and donate blood and platelets before the holiday season.
If you've never donated before, here are some tips -
- Donating takes less than one hour
- Before your donation, eat healthy, iron-rich foods such as spinach, red meat, fish, poultry, beans, iron-fortified cereals and raisins. This will help maintain a healthy iron level
- Drink an extra 16 oz. of water and fluids before the donation; you can be deferred for dehydration
- Don’t forget to bring a valid government-issued photo ID, a list of medications you are taking, and a list of places you have visited outside of the U.S. in the past 3 years
- Wear clothing with short sleeves or sleeves that can be raised above the elbow
The Red Cross will also host a blood drive on the Monday after Thanksgiving at the Hoffman House.
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