The American Red Cross critically needs blood and platelet donors now following a concerning decrease in donations as the country has experienced an increase in severe weather systems and historic travel.
In fact, over the past month about 20,000 fewer blood donations were collected than needed to maintain the Red Cross national blood supply.
According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), five of the busiest travel days happened in May and more record-breaking travel is expected this summer -- a busy time when many regular donors may be unable to give.
Additionally, the US is approaching what AAA calls the "100 deadliest days" of summer for auto accidents. It is critical hospitals have lifesaving blood products on hand for all trauma and accident victims who count on transfusions when there is no time to waste.
The Memorial Day holiday weekend brought the busiest severe weather of the year so far, with 26 reported tornadoes across 10 states. The Red Cross is monitoring the weather and standing by to open additional shelters if needed. Should any new communities be impacted, the organization will be on the ground providing help.
Individuals are urged to help those facing emergencies -- whether they need a life-saving blood transfusion or shelter from a storm.
Make a blood donation appointment by downloading the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting "RedCrossBlood.org" or by calling 1-(800)-RED-CROSS. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients.
