The American Red Cross is counting on volunteer donors to give blood and help ensure patient needs can be met this summer.
Around Memorial Day, the Red Cross sees a steep decline in blood donations. Busy summer schedules, vacations and school breaks also cause a drop in donations. Accidents and medical emergencies don’t take a summer break—patients need blood every minute, every day.
In the summer of 1973, Ramona Johnson was playing at the park when she was injured jumping off the swings. She was bleeding profusely from a seven-inch gash in her leg. By the time she reached the hospital, she needed an emergency transfusion. She credits the donors who took the time to give blood with helping to save her life.
Johnson’s childhood experience receiving blood compelled her to make her first blood donation more than ten years ago. “A little voice told me that this would be a great way to give back,” she said. “I have been faithfully donating every eight weeks since.”
The public is asked to schedule an appointment to help ensure that hospitals and patients have the blood they need this summer. Make an appointment to donate blood by downloading the free Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
In thanks, all those who come to donate blood or platelets now through June 10 will receive a $5 Amazon gift card via email, courtesy of Suburban Propane. Additionally, those who come to give May 25-29 will receive an exclusive Red Cross branded T-shirt, while supplies last.
Upcoming blood donation opportunities through June 15
Anaheim
5/30: 8 a.m.-2 p.m., North Orange County Community College District, 1830 W. Romneya Dr.
6/4: 2 p.m.-8 p.m., Knott Avenue Christian Church, 315 S. Knott Ave.
6/15: 9 a.m.-3 p.m., WorldMark, 201 W. Katella Ave.
Buena Park
6/14: 2 p.m.-8 p.m., Buena Park Masonic Center, 6841 Western Ave.
Cypress
6/1: 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Hybrid Apparel, 10711 Walker St.
6/7: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., City of Cypress Community Center, 5700 Orange Ave.
