Holzer and the American Red Cross celebrate blood and platelet donors during National Blood Donor Month

Throughout National Blood Donor Month this January, Holzer joins the American Red Cross is celebrating the lifesaving contribution blood and platelet donors make to modern healthcare.

On average, the Red Cross must collect about 15,000 pints of blood every day to meet the needs of patients at approximately 2,700 hospitals and transfusion centers across the country, including Holzer locations. The Greater Alleghenies Blood Services Region is encouraging all eligible blood and platelet donors to make a New Year’s resolution to help save lives by rolling up a sleeve now and throughout the year.

“I can’t think of a better way to start the new year than by taking the time to give blood,” said Marianne Spampinato, Communications Manager. “This is one resolution that takes little time, about an hour, but has a tremendous impact — helping to save as many as three lives with each donation.”

Upcoming blood drive(s) at Holzer facilities include:
• Wednesday, January 22, 11am to 4pm, Davis Family Conference Rooms, located on the Ground Floor of the Holzer – Gallipolis Medical Center in Gallipolis, Ohio. For more information, please call (740) 446-5000.
• Friday, February 14, 12Noon to 5pm, Community Education Room at Holzer Medical Center – Jackson, Jackson, Ohio. For more information, please call (740) 395-8500.

It is no coincidence that National Blood Donor Month falls in January. Winter can often be a difficult time for blood donations because of cold and flu season, inclement weather and various activities surrounding the holiday season. The Red Cross urges donors of all blood types – especially O negative, A negative and B negative – to schedule an appointment to donate blood. Each appointment made and kept, and each unit of blood or platelets given, may offer hope to a patient in need.

How to donate blood
Simply call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more information. 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. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.