Northern Californian Red Cross Asks for Blood Donations

The American Red Cross Northern California Blood Services Region sent a request out to Californians on Tuesday, asking for help in supplying blood and platelet donations for people affected by Hurricane Irene on the East Coast.

More than 70 East Coast blood drives have already been canceled, because of storm-related issues and power outages, which equate to a shortage of more than 2,400 units of blood, according to a release by the Red Cross. Hundreds of blood and platelet donors have also been forced to cancel their donation appointments because of the hurricane.

Red Cross officials are asking for donations within the upcoming days and weeks so they can have a stock of blood on hand in anticipation of the cancellation of more blood drives and donation appointments. The Red Cross is asking for the donation of platelets, commonly used for hospital patients who have experienced trauma or are undergoing cancer treatment, as soon as possible.

Anyone interested in donating blood can call 800-RED-CROSS (800-733-2767) to schedule an appointment. Platelet donors can call 888-881-0988.

The Red Cross is also asking for $10 donations to aid their disaster relief services. Those in a position to donate can call 800-RED-CROSS, text the word RED CROSS to 90999 or mail in donations to their local Red Cross Chapter or to the Washington, D.C., branch at American Red Cross, P.O. Box 37243, Washington, D.C. 20013.