Red Cross Seeking Blood Donations at Four Sites

By: Lee Burnett

The American Red Cross is seeking blood donations in four area communities during the next month to keep up with the constant need for blood. Blood is essential to help patients survive surgeries, cancer treatment, chronic illnesses, and traumatic injuries. But it depends on people being willing to make a donation. Only about 3 percent of age eligible people donate blood annually.

There are two different types of donations, whole blood & power red.

Whole blood is frequently given to trauma patients and people undergoing surgery. A donation takes about one hour. Ideal donor: any blood type.

Red cells from a Power Red donation are typically given to trauma patients, newborns and emergency transfusions during birth, people with sickle cell anemia, and anyone suffering blood loss. During a Power Red donation, you give a concentrated dose of red cells, the part of your blood used every day for those needing transfusions as part of their care. A donation takes about 90 minutes. Ideal donor: blood types: O positive, O negative, A negative, and B negative

The four sites where you can give blood are:

Alfred Parish Church, 8 Kennebunk Road, Alfred from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. August 21

Masonic Lodge, Preble 143, at 16 Elm Street, Sanford from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. August 26

Nasson Community Center, 457 Main Street, Springvale from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. September 5

Wells Community Center, 113 Sanford Road, Wells from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Sept. 16

Because it’s difficult to fit in walk-ins, if you wish to donate, please log on to American Red Cross and follow the instructions to schedule your time. On the day of the drive, complete “Rapid Pass” which will allow you to move more quickly through the registration process.