Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
SALT LAKE CITY (May 21, 2025) — The American Red Cross of Utah invites the community to honor the 12th annual National Trauma Survivors Day by donating blood. Blood donations are critical for treating trauma patients and saving lives, making this a meaningful way to support those impacted by serious injuries.
The amount of blood needed for a trauma patient can vary widely. Some individuals may require just a few units, while others needing massive transfusions may require dozens, or even hundreds, of units. “The leading cause of death from trauma is blood loss,” said Dr. Mark Glyman, a surgeon specializing in facial trauma surgery and a Red Cross volunteer. “We need blood readily available to treat trauma victims effectively. A single car accident victim can need up to 100 units of blood. Patients survive today because members of our community selflessly donated blood.”
In Utah, emergency rooms and trauma centers in nearly 45 hospitals rely on the Red Cross for their blood supply. Donors can conveniently schedule an appointment using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting redcross.org/GiveBlood or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
Summer Brings Increased Demand for Blood Donations
While all blood types are critical, the need for type O blood is especially urgent. Type O positive is the most frequently transfused blood type, and type O negative, the universal blood type, is used in emergencies when a patient’s blood type cannot be identified quickly.
Each year, Utah sees more than 18,000 injury-causing car crashes. “Emergencies rapidly deplete hospital blood supplies, making it vital for donors of all types to contribute,” said Benjamin Donner, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Central and Southern Utah Chapter. “The demand for O negative blood is especially critical to ensure trauma centers are equipped to handle life-threatening situations.”
Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, “trauma season” sees a rise in severe injuries from car accidents, ATV crashes, sports-related injuries and other summer activities. These incidents drive higher-than-usual needs for blood transfusions. Approximately 25% of trauma patients require transfusions, with 3% to 5% needing massive transfusions of 10 or more units.
Donor Recognition and Incentives
To thank donors, those who come to give blood between May 19 and May 31, 2025, will receive an exclusive American Red Cross solar lantern, while supplies last. Additionally, every May donor will automatically be entered to win a U.S. trip of their choice for two. Full details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/May.
About National Trauma Survivors Day
National Trauma Survivors Day was established in 2014 by the American Trauma Society and the Trauma Survivors Network as part of National Trauma Awareness Month in May. This day provides an opportunity for trauma survivors, their families and caregivers to celebrate resilience and achievements in recovery. Observed on the third Wednesday in May, it honors survivors alongside the clinicians and caregivers who supported them.
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 follow us on social media.
