NYBC calls upon community to donate blood, platelets

Blood Drive Cancellations Expected Due To Hazardous Snow Conditions

Blood Donations Already Down Due To Holiday Travel, Winter Recess

New York Blood Center (NYBC) serving more than 20 million people in New York City, Long Island, the Hudson Valley, New Jersey, and parts of Connecticut and Pennsylvania calls upon the community to please donate blood and platelets, as the tri-state area braces for a huge predicted winter snowstorm.  O-negative and O-positive blood types are particularly needed, but healthy people of all blood types and ethnicities are encouraged to donate.

Blood donors are being asked to give blood today and in the days ahead if they can, but please visit www.nybloodcenter.org before leaving home for the latest information regarding cancellations.

With the current predictions of heavy snow and strong winds beginning Sunday morning, December 26, dozens of blood drives face cancellation.  NYBC officials project blood donation losses for Sunday and Monday, December 27, amounting to more than 1,000 units.

Blood is traditionally in short supply during the winter months due to the holidays, travel schedules, inclement weather and illness.  Approximately 25% of regional blood collection comes from high schools and colleges, most of which are closed for recess.

The need for blood is constant.  The shelf life of platelets is only five days; the shelf life of red blood cells is 42 days.  Hospital use of blood products remains high -- due to surgeries, emergencies and care of cancer patients.  About one in seven people entering a hospital needs blood.

NYBC takes very seriously its responsibility to provide a safe, adequate and reliable blood supply for the tri-state area.  By donating blood this week, organizations and individuals can help us maintain a safe, reliable and adequate blood supply throughout the winter season.