The American Red Cross is asking all eligible donors to give blood in order to help make sure a safe and stable blood supply is available over the coming weeks, especially with the critical Labor Day holiday weekend only a few weeks away. The most critical current need is for donors with Type O blood, as Type O blood makes up over half of the total blood requested by the more than 100 hospitals served in the Alabama and Central Gulf Coast Region.
Because O Negative is considered “universal donor” blood, it can be used to treat trauma patients in an emergency when time is of the essence and the patient’s blood type is unknown. This makes it an extremely important part of a safe and stable blood supply, and there is always a tremendous demand for this type of blood due to its versatility.
In order to give blood, one must be 17 years old or older, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in general good health. Bring photo identification and make sure to hydrate yourself and eat well in the 48 hours leading up to donation. If you cannot donate, ask someone to donate in your place.
