Media Center

Give thanks by giving blood

November 24, 2008

COLUMBUS, Ohio – For many families, the month of November is a traditional time to give thanks with friends and relatives. In the spirit of this holiday season, the American Red Cross is asking eligible blood donors to give thanks by giving blood.

“This holiday season, it’s important for eligible individuals to take the time to donate blood,” said Rodney Wilson, a spokesperson for the Central Ohio Blood Services Region. “Blood is needed more than most would imagine. Every day, more than 38,000 blood donations are needed throughout the United States.

Blood transfusions are needed every day for the treatment of many diseases, including cancer, and surgeries. The blood supply is particularly vulnerable throughout the holiday season because donors are traveling and are busy with holiday preparations, causing blood donation to fall off many people’s to-do list. 

Add a new family tradition to your Thanksgiving and donate blood.

If you are at least 17 years of age, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and are in good general health, you may be eligible to donate blood. All donors need to present positive identification. 

10/08AP837

Media contacts

Central Ohio
Blood Services

(614) 253-2740
1-800-338-8086

Rodney J. Wilson
Communications Manager
extension 2347
e-mail

Heather Reichle
Communications Specialist
extension 2275
e-mail

Other Red Cross
lines of service
You can find your local
Red Cross chapter by
searching on redcross.org
or by checking the white
pages of your local phone
directory.

National
media inquiries
Click here for listings