Red Cross Issues Urgent Plea for Blood Donations

A recent outbreak of colds and influenza in southeast Michigan has caused many individuals who had intended to donate blood to tell the American Red Cross they can't give right now due to illness.

Unfortunately, that means the blood supply in local hospitals and medical facilities in southeast Michigan is dwindling quickly, causing the Red Cross to issue an urgent plea for healthy blood donors to step forward and give.

"The Southeastern Michigan Blood Services Region must collect 900 units of blood each and every day to support the needs of our local hospitals," said Martha Kurtz, communications associate for the Red Cross. "Our blood donors are so supportive, we felt if they knew about our current situation, they’d understand how much we need and appreciate them during this current challenge."

Historically, the flu season can last through the month of March and beyond, but the blood supply must be replenished now. While all blood donors are needed, people with type O negative and O positive blood are in highest demand.  Healthy donors are urged to make, and keep, their appointments.

To make an appointment to give blood, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org.

The next blood drive in Novi is Wednesday, March 21 at from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.