Blood Needed In Seal Beach: How To Donate

SEAL BEACH, CA — The American Red Cross urged people to donate blood to help overcome an emergency blood shortage as the national supply dropped by more than 25 percent in July.

To encourage the local community to pitch in, the Red Cross is hosting a blood donation event in Seal Beach on Nov. 12 at the Marina Community Center from 9: 30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Donors will receive a $10 digital gift card for Amazon by email. and will be entered to win one of three $5,000 gift cards.

“In a world where medical science has made it clear just how vital and irreplaceable blood transfusions are, we must rise to the challenge. That’s why we at the American Red Cross are pressing so hard right now for blood donations to overcome this shortage — and ensure patients get the lifesaving treatment that they need,” said Dr. Eric Gehrie, executive medical director of the Red Cross.

According to the Red Cross, the national blood supply dropped by more tan 25 percent since July 1 and the situation will only get worse without more blood donations. Blood shortages could cause doctors to have to withhold or delay transfusion, the Red Cross said, which could cause patients to suffer while waiting.

All blood types are needed for donations, especially those with type O blood, according to the Red Cross.

To make an appointment, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).