Storm and power outages lower blood donor counts

By Sally Voth -- svoth@nvdaily.com

Last weekend's storms have resulted in about 1,700 potential blood donations being lost due to canceled drives, according to a news release from the Greater Alleghenies Region of the American Red Cross.

The release states power outages and downed trees could keep other donors from making their scheduled donations, and asks those who are able to get out and donate to do so.

"This storm comes during our emergency appeal for blood donors and has the potential to cause a further decline in already low numbers of blood donations," region CEO John Hagins states in the release. "We have been working to rebuild our inventories to adequate levels, but the storms and heat present some unexpected challenges. However, most blood drive locations remain open and blood donors are needed."

Especially needed are donations of O negative, A negative, B negative and O positive blood, according to the release, which reminds donors to stay hydrated before and after donating, and to wear lightweight clothes and eat a healthy meal before giving blood.

Blood can be given at the following drives and locations:
• American Red Cross, 561 Fortress Drive, Winchester from 12 to 6 p.m., Thursday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, and 1 to 7 p.m. Tuesday. The latter will also accommodate donations of double red cells.
• Strasburg Moose Lodge, 572 Redbud Road, 1 to 6 p.m. Thursday, which includes double red cell donation.
• Sherando Presbyterian Church, 751 Fairfax Pike, Stephens City, 1 to 7 p.m. Friday. Double red cell donations accepted.
• North Mountain Fire and Rescue, 186 Rosenberger Lane, Winchester, 1 to 7 p.m. Friday. Double red blood cell donations taken.
• New Market Fire and Rescue, 9771 S. Congress St., 1:30 to 6:30 p.m. Monday, double red cells accepted.
• Wal-Mart, 1036 U.S. 211 West, Luray, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday.
• Frederick County Government Building, 107 N. Kent St., 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday, includes double red blood cells.

For more information, or to schedule an appointment, call 800-RED CROSS, or visit www.redcrossblood.org.