Blood Donations Needed In Wake Of Sandy

The American Red Cross is continuing its efforts to reschedule cancelled blood drives and increase donor turnout to help replenish blood supplies following Superstorm Sandy. Through Wednesday, the destructive storm has forced the cancellation of about 360 Red Cross blood drives in 13 states, including Michigan, and the District of Columbia resulting in a shortfall of approximately 12,000 blood and platelet donations. Red Cross officials say while the public has been very supportive so far, additional donors are needed to make up for the shortfall caused by the storm. Spokesman Todd Kulman of the Lansing-based Great Lakes Blood Services Region says they’re asking that community members consider donating blood in affected areas once it’s safe to do so. Nationwide, an average of 44,000 blood donations are needed each and every day to meet the needs of accident victims, cancer patients, and children with blood disorders.