The American Red Cross is facing a national blood crisis – its worst blood shortage in over a decade, posing a concerning risk to patient care. Blood and platelet donations are critically needed to help prevent further delays in vital medical treatments. Please schedule your blood donation today.

Harold Brooks, President of the American Red Cross Retiree Association, urges all eligible members to roll up their sleeves during this unprecedented time and to spread the word to others. Noting information sent to media around the country, Harold emphasizes that many businesses and organizations are experiencing pandemic challenges, and the Red Cross is no different. He suggests going to  Red Cross National Blood Supply Shortage Crisis (redcrossblood.org) to learn more about the blood crisis and to link to appointments available in your region..

Mary Buszuwski, a newly elected ARCRA board member, shares her experience. “I have donated blood to Red Cross since my days in college. I did it because donating blood was the right thing to do. It never occurred to me that someone in my own family would have their life saved by blood transfusions.”

Ms. Buszuwski says that 15 years ago her younger sister needed surgery, and during the procedure she bled out on the operating table. “The doctors and nurses didn’t think she was going to survive. She was given one and half times her total blood volume in transfusions. It saved her life, and she is still with us today."

"My family will never be able to thank the many anonymous blood donors who saved my sister’s life, but it’s good to know that people donated blood because it was the right thing to do.”  

Please schedule your blood donation today.