The American Red Cross urges people to share their good health this holiday season by donating blood for patients in need.
A decline in donations occurs from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day when donors are busy with holiday activities and travel. Medical conditions and emergencies that require blood don’t stop for the holidays.
Patients like 6-year-old Ava King will continue to need transfusions critical to their care this holiday season. Ava has Diamond-Blackfan anemia, which impacts her body’s ability to produce enough red blood cells.
“We are so thankful for blood donors because Ava relies on blood transfusions every month to stay alive and thrive,” said Ava’s mother, Tina King. “It’s truly a gift!”
By giving blood, donors may give patients more time – and more holidays – with loved ones. Make an appointment to donate blood or platelets by downloading the free American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1 (800) RED CROSS (1 (800) 733-2767).
The Red Cross is thanking those who carve out time to give November 21-24 with a long-sleeved T-shirt, while supplies last.
Upcoming blood
donation opportunities
• Harmony: November 27 from 1-7 p.m., Community Center, 225 Third Ave. SW
• Lanesboro: November 28 from 1-7 p.m., Community Hall, 202 Parkway
• Preston: November 27 from 1-7 p.m., St. Columban Parish, 408 NW Preston St.
• Rushford: November 26 from 1-6 p.m., MiEnergy Cooperative, 31110 Cooperative Way
• Spring Valley: November 28 from 12-6 p.m., Community Center, 200 S. Broadway