Give Blood In Seal Beach This Holiday Season

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 Dec. 17 at Orange County Fire Station 48 from 9: 30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Donors will receive a $15 digital e-gift card.

“Having blood products readily available to help patients in their moment of need is critical,” said Dr. Emily Coberly, Divisional Chief Medical Officer, American Red Cross. “Transfusing blood products to severely bleeding patients before they arrive at the hospital can improve their chance of survival. But this lifesaving care is only possible through the generosity of blood donors — especially those with type O blood, whose gift can be a lifeline in someone’s darkest hour.”

According to the Red Cross, the national blood supply dropped by more than 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).