Now that the snow is melting, the American Red Cross is asking Virginians to get out and donate blood.
Snow and “severe winter weather” has led to the cancellation of more than 100 blood drives across North Carolina and Virginia, leaving the Mid-Atlantic in short supply, according to a Red Cross news release.
Seasonal illnesses, weather cancellations, and holiday schedules have also led to 28,000 fewer blood donations than necessary, the release said.
“Even temporary disruptions to blood and platelet donations can diminish the availability for hospital patients,” said regional Red Cross spokeswoman Berandette Jay in the release. “It’s the blood on the shelves that helps save lives in an emergency, and that’s why we’re asking eligible individuals to make an appointment to give blood or platelets today.”
There are dozens of blood drives around Hampton Roads in the coming weeks. To find one near you, click here.
