When winter storms move across the area, they affect more than road safety and school schedules. The American Red Cross is reporting a decline in blood products from donation shortfalls caused by heavy snow, freezing temperatures, and ice storms both here in Michigan and across the country.
Blood donations help patients in a variety of ways in hospitals for both emergency situations and routine surgeries. One recent recipient of donated blood, Tina Rocco, began hemorrhaging badly after welcoming her new baby by C-section and was saved by her medical team and several pints of blood.
“You never truly know when you, or someone you know, might need [a blood transfusion],” said Rocco.
The need for blood is constant, but even more so during periods of serious weather that reduce donations. Currently, the American Red Cross is urging health individuals, especially those with type O blood, to give now and ensure the availability of this life-saving treatment for future patients.
Learn more at RedCrossBlood.org or visit the Events page at WGRT.com <HERE> for a list of blood drives in the Blue Water Area.
Reporting for WGRT – Jessie Wiegand
