Blood donors urgently needed

Blood donations through the local American Red Cross Blood Services Region declined during the summer months, resulting in an urgent need of all blood types, especially type O negative, right now and in the weeks ahead.

Type O negative donors can make the difference between an adequate blood supply and a shortage. That’s because type O negative blood can be transfused to patients with any blood type, and is often transfused into patients in emergency and trauma situations.

Every day, more than 39,000 pints of blood are needed for patients in the United States. Blood is used for the treatment of cancer patients, people with blood disorders, premature babies, transplant recipients, trauma victims and more.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities include:

•September 7, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Armory, 311 Broadway Street, Alexandria.

To donate blood, call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE (1-800-448-3543) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients.

Tags: local news, red cross, blood drive, news, blood