March is Red Cross Month

Throughout its 130-year history, the American Red Cross has helped millions of people in times of need thanks to the generous support of volunteers. From large scale natural disasters like the earthquake in Haiti earthquake last year, to local house and apartment fires response, to ensuring a safe, stable blood and platelet supply for patients, the giving spirit of volunteers makes this support happen every day.

Due to the severe weather the nation experienced this winter, the Red Cross had more than 28,000 scheduled blood and platelet donations canceled. It is thanks to the response of volunteer blood drive coordinators and volunteer blood and platelet donors that patient needs continued to be met during this difficult time.

The Red Cross appreciates the volunteers and supporters who have given their time, blood or money that enables the Red Cross to perform its lifesaving mission. Thank you!

Blood donors are a reason to be grateful

Ten-year-old Bryan Botkin was asked to compile a list of things for which he was thankful as a homework assignment. The list was nearly 100 items long – everything from pizza and video games to gravel and health insurance.

"Despite the fact that he's going through some pretty tough days, Bryan hasn't lost the ability to look around and be thankful," explains his mom, Janet.

Bryan remains positive despite ongoing treatment for Ewing's Sarcoma, a bone cancer. Among the reasons to be grateful - a readily available blood supply when he needs transfusions during treatment.

"It's very important because you never know when you are going to need blood," explains Janet. "It costs the donor nothing, but it means so much to the people they are helping."

By the Book

Many blood and platelet donors ask why they are required to read blood donation materials each time they donate. These materials are part of a thorough process that helps ensure donor and patient safety is protected.

The reading materials keep donors informed of the often-changing requirements for donating blood or platelets and allow donors an opportunity to evaluate whether they are eligible before entering the donation process.

One of the most recent updates is an indefinite deferral from blood donation for any donor who has been diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. This precautionary step has been taken to reduce the risk of a virus associated with the disease potentially being transmitted to a patient through a blood transfusion.

If donors have any questions, they can call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org for more information.