DETROIT (June 12, 2023) – Laura Miller knows first-hand the impact that lifesaving blood can have on those who need it. Her grandson developed a rare bleeding disorder and benefitted from donated blood products. And when her father suffered injuries in a plane crash years ago after the aircraft he was piloting malfunctioned, her family took comfort in a blood supply that was available to meet his trauma needs.

Their miraculous recoveries serve to underscore the reality that donors are always needed to help save lives.

Miller gave blood for the first time during her first year in college. When she gives platelets at her next appointment, it will mark her 59^th donation. Her motivation for giving is selfless.

“For me, it’s why not give blood,” said Miller, a resident of Canton and grandmother of three. “You get such a concrete connection to other people. I have so many friends, clients and family members who have benefitted. I feel really blessed to be able to do it.”

As World Blood Donor Day (June 14) and World Sickle Cell Day (June 19) approach, the American Red Cross recognizes donors like Miller who help meet the needs of patients.

Because the need for blood is constant – every two seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood – seasoned donors, those who have not given in a while and those who have never given before can help ensure continuity for patients and keep blood shelves stocked to prevent a potential seasonal shortage.

World Blood Donor Day and World Sickle Cell Day are also meant to raise awareness of the need for a safe, diverse and stable blood supply.

• The Red Cross collected over 26,000 fewer blood donations than needed in May. When less people answer the call to donate, the blood supply shrinks. That could mean blood products are not ready for hospitals to reach for in emergencies where patients need immediate medical care. 
• In the U.S., it is estimated that over 100,000 people – the majority of whom are of African descent – have sickle cell disease and may require blood transfusions throughout their lifetime to help manage their disease.
  
• One in 3 African American blood donors are a match for people with sickle cell disease. Having a diverse blood supply is one way to help ensure patients have ongoing access to compatible blood to help avoid serious complications.

“If you are eligible to give, what a gift it is,” Miller said. “You can be assured that it’s such a rewarding experience. And if you’re a platelet donor, you get to meet a lot of great people at the donation center. They become like family. And everybody there, as you’re waiting, everybody’s got a story. It’s great to be part of someone’s story.”

Individuals of all blood types are urged to make an appointment by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Those who give blood in June receive a $10 gift card by email to a merchant of their choice. Donors also will be automatically entered for a chance to win a backyard theater package including a laser wireless projector and screen. Details for both offers can be found at RedCrossBlood.org/June.

###

MEDIA CONTACT: David Olejarz | david.olejarz@redcross.org | 313-303-0606

About the American Red Cross 
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross