Blood Donors Encouraged to Give Now to Maintain Supply

The American Association of Blood Banks (AABB), and the Interorganizational Task Force on Domestic Disasters and Acts of Terrorism has determined that to maintain a healthy blood supply level, people should find local donation opportunities in the coming weeks.

The American Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley will hold a blood drive on Friday, Sept. 23, at the Nesquehoning Recreation Center, W. Railroad Street, Nesquehoning. Anyone who is at least 17 years old, who weighs at least 110 pounds, and is in good health can give blood. For more information, call the Red Cross at 1-800-GIVE LIFE.

"The transfusion medicine community has concluded that local blood banks located in the path of Hurricane Katrina have enough blood to meet medical need," said Donald Doddridge, chairman of the Interorganizational Task Force. "To ensure that we have an adequate supply of blood to meet patient needs across the country, the task force recommends that individuals who wish to help contact their local hospital or blood center and schedule appointments in the near future."

The need for blood will be ongoing, especially over the next few weeks, as disaster victims require additional care, as deferred elective surgeries are rescheduled, or if there should be any further emergencies. The task force encourages donors and potential donors to make giving blood a regular part of their lives. Those interested in donating blood may contact the American Red Cross at 1-800-GIVE LIFE, or visit www.nepagivelife.org to find a local blood donation opportunity.

Established in 1950, Northeastern Pennsylvania Blood Services (NEPA) supplies blood and blood products to most hospitals throughout northeastern and central Pennsylvania.