Westchester says blood donations are in high demand

Both the New York Blood Center and the Red Cross are urgently calling for blood donations ahead of summer, when demand typically rises due to an increase in severe injuries from car accidents, sports-related incidents and other outdoor activities. Type O negative and O positive blood are especially needed.

According to Westchester County, supplies are extremely low and scheduled donations have dropped. A single donation can save up to three lives. Volunteer blood donors help maintain a continuous supply of blood, platelets and plasma, not only during disasters and emergencies, but also for surgeries and medical procedures for patients facing life-threatening conditions.

Westchester County Health Commissioner Dr. Sherlita Amler said donating blood is one of the most selfless gifts a person can give and encouraged those who are able to consider the lifesaving act. She said blood donation is safe and efficient and there is a continued need for blood and blood products.

Every blood donation saves lives, and repeat donations are key to maintaining a safe and sustainable blood supply. Blood transfusions play a critical role in health care, benefiting patients with life-threatening conditions and supporting complex medical and surgical procedures. Voluntary plasma donations also provide critical support to people with hemophilia and immune deficiencies.

The New York Blood Center in Elmsford schedules donor appointments at nybc.org, accepts walk-ins and can help organize community blood drives. For more information, call 1-800-933-2566.

The American Red Cross Greater New York Region works with local groups to schedule blood drives. To find a drive near you, go to redcross.org/give-blood.html.

World Blood Donor Day is observed on June 14 to recognize and thank blood donors, raise awareness of the ongoing need for safe and sustainable blood supplies and highlight the lifesaving impact of blood donation.

The day marks the birthday of Karl Landsteiner, who discovered the ABO blood group system in 1900, a breakthrough that later earned him the Nobel Prize.