No matter what your blood type, we need you!

DOUBLE RED DONATION

Most patients today receive specific blood components (platelets, red blood cells and/or plasma), rather than whole blood. Our new double red cell automated technology is to-date the most efficient, donor-friendly method of collecting the blood components most frequently needed by patients in our community.

Automation selectively separates and stores red cells as the remaining product is returned to the donor.

The double red cell procedure uses a cell separator to collect the blood and provide volume replacement to replace the volume of blood lost by the donors. Volume replacement should help you to feel more comfortable after the procedure.

· The most needed blood types (O, B and A-).

· The double red cell process uses a smaller needle than the whole   blood process.

· Donors and sponsors receive double credit for each double red cell donation.

· All donors must be at least 17 years of age and in generally good health with a 40% iron level. Double red cell donors are eligible to donate every 112 days

· Males: 150 lb min. weight - 5ft. 1in. min. height

· Females: 175 lb. min. weight - 5ft. 5in. min. height

BLOOD TYPE O, the Universal Hero

The need for blood for patients in our communities is ongoing and ever-present.  Too often, we find our shelves short of what we need to effectively supply the hospitals we serve, especially when it comes to the demand for Type O blood.  That is why Type O blood donors are absolutely critical.

Type O negative blood is the most needed and most requested by hospitals because it is the universal blood type.  That means that in a situation where there is not time to determine a patient’s blood type, type O negative blood is used, as it is compatible with all blood types.  Type O positive has similar benefits in that it can be transfused to anyone with another positive blood type.  Type O blood products are the most requested by hospitals for use during traumas and emergencies, for premature infants, accident victims and hundreds of others every day.

We need ALL TYPE O donors to give blood today!  Only you can help us maintain a safe and adequate supply of Type O blood during this challenging time of year.  With your help, we can continue the lifesaving mission of the Red Cross and we can make strides in ensuring that the most critical blood type is available for patients in our communities! 

Though there is a need for all blood types, the Red Cross is issuing a special request to all TYPE O Blood Donors and asks them to please consider making a blood donation right away.  Remember, you can give blood every 56 days, up to 6 times a year.