Communities across the country are closely monitoring the outbreak of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and following public health preparedness guidance. Part of that preparation includes maintaining a readily available blood supply for hospital patients.The last thing patients should have to worry about during this time is;a shortage.
I have been contacted by Rotarian Michael N. Parks, Rear Admiral USCG (ret.) who is the CEO of the American Red Cross – Northern Ohio Region because he needs our help as we are now facing a severe blood shortage. Please see the following and “give if you are able” (I have also attached (click to view) the most current News Release).
Please stay safe and healthy and keep in your thoughts and prayers, all of those serving on the front lines of this crisis, whether they be Doctors, nurses, first responders, or any others.
Governor John
“As the attached (click to view) news release states, the American Red Cross faces a severe blood shortage, as 7000 blood drives have been canceled across the country due to concerns about congregating at workplaces, college campuses and schools amidst the coronavirus outbreak. These cancellations have resulted in 200,000 fewer blood donations. Here in the Northern Ohio Region, more than 300 blood drives have been canceled, resulting in approximately 8,500 fewer blood donations.
More than 80% of the blood the Red Cross collects comes from drives held at locations of this type. Here’s the good news: Donating blood is a safe process and people should not hesitate to give or receive blood. If you are healthy and able, please come in to give. You can help change the headlines with a blood donation.
We have fixed collection sites in the region, where staff is on duty to receive blood donations seven days a week.
If you are healthy, please consider a blood donation at this time. And please help spread the word about the severe shortage of blood, and the need for volunteers to donate.
By now, you’ve seen the headlines and heard the news. Communities across the country are closely monitoring the outbreak of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and following public health preparedness guidance. Part of that preparation includes maintaining a readily available blood supply for hospital patients. The last thing patients should have to worry about during this time is a shortage.
Here’s the good news: Donating blood is a safe process and people should not hesitate to give or receive blood. If you are healthy and able, please come in to give. You can help change the headlines with a blood donation.
Please stay safe and healthy and keep in your thoughts and prayers, all of those serving on the front lines of this crisis, whether they be Doctors, nurses, first responders, or any others.
