Red Cross Asks DuPage Residents for Blood After Severe Donation Shortages This Winter

In light of a severe blood and platelet deficiency this winter, the American Red Cross is asking DuPage residents to donate in the coming weeks.

According to a release from the Red Cross, holiday stress has resulted in about 37,000 fewer blood donations in November and December than what was needed. Snow and severe weather also generally have an adverse effect on donors, the release states.

Nearly 100 blood drives had to be canceled in December because of snow. That left 3,100 blood donations uncollected, when statistics show that every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood.

“Blood and platelet donations are critically needed in the coming days so that patients can continue to receive the lifesaving treatments they are counting on,” Nick Gehrig, the organization’s communications director, said in the release. “We encourage donors to invite a family member or friend to donate with them to help meet patient needs. Right now, blood and platelet donations are being distributed to hospitals faster than they are coming in.”

Donations usually go toward patients dealing with organ transplants, leukemia, cancer and sickle cell disease, among many other conditions.

Payton Kannarr, a high school freshman, has leukemia and counts on blood and platelet transfusions weekly to biweekly.

“We have seen firsthand the incredible need for blood products as we have been on this four-year rollercoaster journey,” Payton’s mom, Amy, said in the release. “Through the care and compassion of donors, Payton has been able to enjoy life as a teenager.”

A huge event, the Great Chicago Blood Drive, will take place next Monday, Jan. 9 from 7 a.m.-6 p.m. at the Hyatt-Regency Grand Ballroom and from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. at the Drake Oak Brook Hotel. The event will include free t-shirts and entertainment.

As for DuPage County, help out the Red Cross by making an appearance at one of the upcoming nearby blood drives:

• Jan. 9 from 8 a.m.-6 p.m.: The Oak Brook Drake Hotel, 2301 York Road, Oak Brook

• Jan. 14 from 7:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.: Good Shepherd United Methodist Church, 751 Army Trail Road, Barlett
• Jan. 16 from 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m.: Benedictine University — Kindlon Hall, 5700 College Road, Lisle

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