'Critical Need' Blood Drive Thursday In Morristown

MORRISTOWN, NJ — There is currently a severe nationwide shortage and critically low reserves of Type O blood, the universal blood type, and the American Red Cross is urging residents of Morristown to donate.

The donation drive will be held on Thursday, Jan. 5, at the Presbyterian Church of Morristown, which is located at 65 South Street. There are currently still a handful of spots available, ranging from 1 p.m. until 3:45 p.m., officials said.

Due to the current blood shortage, blood suppliers are unable to meet demand and provide blood products to local hospitals, according to medical professionals at RWJBarnabas Health.

Life-saving blood is given in cases of traumas, such as car accidents, industrial and home accidents, childbirth and mass casualty events.

One Chatham family witnessed the life-changing ability of blood donors when their 11-year-old son, Michael DiMaggio, was hit by a car while walking home from school. Nicole DiMaggio, Michael's mother, stated that her son was in the hospital for three months following the collision and underwent ten surgeries, including having his entire leg reconstructed.

During his hospital stay, Michael DiMaggio required seven blood transfusions to save his life. "I was just, grateful for the volunteer blood donors who made it so that when Michael needed blood, it was there available to him," Nicole DiMaggio told Patch.

State hospital systems are currently in desperate need of blood and platelet donations, particularly type O blood. This is in response to the looming blood and platelet shortage in New Jersey as winter approaches.

To schedule an appointment with the American Red Cross or to view upcoming donation drives, click here.